A four-legged member of the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office is preparing to represent the agency on the national stage next month.
Vinnie, a Belgian Malinois assigned to the sheriff’s K9 Unit, will travel with his handler, Lt. Jeremy Bertolino, to Abilene, Texas, for the 2026 United States Police Canine Association national trials. More than 100 police K9 teams are expected to compete when the event begins Sept. 20.
Bertolino and Vinnie have worked together for five years, developing the partnership needed for both law enforcement duties and competition. If Vinnie remains healthy and avoids significant injuries, Bertolino hopes the pair can continue working together for several more years.
The Manatee County Sheriff’s Office K9 Unit uses Belgian Malinois, a breed known for its athleticism, drive and ability to work in demanding conditions. The dogs used by the unit are bred in Europe and are selected for characteristics suited to police work, including their ability to perform in Florida’s heat.
Vinnie is trained in explosives detection as well as apprehension work. His training includes exercises using bite suits, obedience drills and searches for articles carrying human scent.
During article-search exercises, objects such as keys are placed in a designated grassy area. Vinnie is sent into the area, often working into the wind to improve his ability to locate the human scent left on the object.
Competition rules require Bertolino to remain outside the search area until Vinnie signals that he has located the article. Once Vinnie finds the object, he must indicate its location without touching it. Contact with the article can result in the team losing points.
Vinnie has already demonstrated his skills at the national level. During the November 2025 competition, he earned first place in obedience and finished third overall.
Last year’s national event gave Bertolino and Vinnie a home-field advantage, with the competition held in Manatee County. This year, the pair will make the trip to Texas to compete against law enforcement K9 teams from across the country.
While teams will be competing for national recognition, the event also provides an opportunity for handlers from different agencies to train, learn from one another and strengthen connections within the police K9 community.
When Vinnie eventually retires from service with the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office, his partnership with Bertolino will continue. The sheriff’s office will retire Vinnie to his longtime handler, allowing him to spend his retirement as part of Bertolino’s family.
More information about the United States Police Canine Association and its police K9 programs is available through the United States Police Canine Association.
