Hibbing Police Department’s newest K9 duo ready to go to work

Hibbing Police Department Office Sydney Haugan and K9 Officer Gunner

(Hibbing Police Department)

HIBBING, Minn. – Hibbing Police Department Officer Sydney Haugan and K9 Officer Gunner have taken their first big step.

They graduated from McDonough K9 School on Friday, June 27.

The school is an intensive 15-weeks of training in firearms detection and criminal apprehension.

Gunner is a 1-and-a-half year old male German Shepherd.

Hibbing police are hoping he will play a vital role in protecting and serving Hibbing.

Gunner will be the only police K9 trained in these disciplines north of St. Paul.

In a news release Hibbing Chief of Police Steve Estey said, “The successful completion of this rigorous training program reflects not only the dedication and discipline of our K9 unit, but also the strength of our commitment to public safety.”

They officially start their duty on July 2, 2025.

Haugan and Gunner join Hibbing Police’s existing K9 unit, Officer Brittany Dillinger and K9 Officer Dottie, who is trained in electronic storage detection.

Opportunities to meet the duos will occur this summer, including National Night Out at Bennett Park on Aug. 5 and at the Operation K9 event in Duluth on Aug. 14.

Gunner was raised in Germany.

His purchase was made possible through funding assistance from the Northland K9 Foundation and the American Kennel Club Reunite.

Hibbing Police Department Chief of Police Steve Estey pictured with Office Sydney Haugan and K9 Officer Gunner following their recent graduation ceremony.

(Hibbing Police Department)