Oxford Police Department Welcomes First Female K9 Officer

Written with artificial intelligence assistance.

According to Oxford Police Department, Officer MacKenzie Rogers has achieved a lifelong dream by becoming the Oxford Police Department’s (OPD) first-ever female K9 officer. Rogers, a recent graduate of the University of Mississippi’s criminal justice program, has been a rising star in law enforcement since her early college days.

Officer MacKenzie RogersPhoto byOxford MS Police Department

From a young age, Rogers admired police officers as real-life superheroes. "I remember when I was little, it was like, you know, (police officers) were the superheroes," she said. Her passion for service and community engagement only grew stronger over the years, ultimately guiding her to a career in policing.

Originally from the small Michigan village of Mattawan, Rogers began her journey with OPD as an intern during her sophomore year at Ole Miss. Even while managing a demanding schedule that included being a full-time student, president of two clubs, vice president of another, and vice president of her sorority, Rogers demonstrated remarkable dedication. She was hired by the department full time upon turning 21, and her energetic approach has continued unabated since her graduation in May.

Rogers recently earned the department’s Blue Line Award for her quick actions in apprehending a suspect during her first foot chase. Her heroic efforts also include performing CPR on a life-threatening case and engaging in her first vehicle pursuit. In the week of July 15, she furthered her training by working with OPD’s horses and honing her skills to become a K9 officer.

Her enthusiasm for community engagement is a key motivation. "I knew I was going to love police work my whole life,” Rogers said. She appreciates OPD’s commitment to community involvement, from hosting events to engaging in personal interactions with residents. Observing K9 officers during her internship, Rogers recognized the unique opportunity they have to foster positive community connections through their work with dogs.

Currently stationed as a school resource K9 officer at Bramlett Elementary School, Rogers works closely with her narcotics-detection dog, Mina, a 3-year-old yellow lab. Their training sessions are a blend of rigorous exercises and playful interactions, with Mina being rewarded with a squeaky tennis ball when she successfully identifies narcotics. Rogers and Mina's weekly training includes searching through various environments, such as warehouses and school settings.

Public Information Officer Breck Jones describes the K9 training as a "big fun game" for the high-energy dogs. Officer Brandon Byrd, a fellow K9 handler, praised Rogers and Mina for their exceptional performance, noting Rogers’ eagerness to learn and Mina’s impressive capabilities.

Rogers remains profoundly grateful for her position with OPD. "I’ve had experiences in the workforce that have been scary moments where, you know, your life is in a threat," she said. "But it’s hard to convey just how blessed I am to be at this department and have the opportunities I have."

As Oxford’s first female K9 officer, Rogers embodies a blend of dedication, passion, and community spirit, marking a significant milestone for the department and the community it serves.