KEARNEY, Neb. - Kearney is adding a furry, four-legged officer to its police department after being officially sworn in Tuesday night.

K9 officer Kuba is the newest member of the Kearney Police Department after accepting an oath of office during Tuesday’s city council meeting.

Police Chief Gabe Kowalek told the audience that Kuba was purchased from a police officer in the Czech Republic who trained him to work with law enforcement.

Kuba then spent 16 weeks training with the Nebraska State Patrol where he gained necessary certifications.

The Dutch Sheppard will assist officers in drug detection, suspect apprehension and more, and will be handled by experienced K9 Officer Zach Schwarz.