Intent to Single Source for a Narcotics K-9

The Tampa Police Department (TPD) seeks to procure and standardize its K-9 inventory from Southern Coast K9. These specialized dogs are critical assets in combating drug-related crimes. Their advanced olfactory capabilities enable them to detect trace amounts of illegal narcotics that human officers may miss, playing a key role in securing state and federal search warrants—particularly for parcels shipped via USPS, FedEx, and UPS, which drug trafficking organizations and cartels frequently use. Narcotics K-9s also enhance officer safety by quickly identifying the presence of hazardous substances like fentanyl, reducing the risk of accidental exposure, injury, or death. TPD has an established relationship with Southern Coast K9, having previously received successful placements through donations. Relying on this local vendor ensures consistency, trust, and the deployment of K-9s with a proven track record of reliability, health, and performance. For these reasons, Southern Coast K9 is the only source capable of meeting TPD’s operational and safety requirements for this procurement.