The Atlanta Braves and The Battery Atlanta Provide Funds for Cobb County Police Department to Acquire Newest K9 Officer

K9 Officer “Champ” joins as Truist Park and The Battery Atlanta’s newest element of robust safety support

The Atlanta Braves organization welcomes its newest K9 Champ as part of its continuous and successful collaboration with the Cobb County Police K9 Department. This partnership aids in the Truist Park and The Battery Atlanta security as the Cobb County Police Department K9 Unit provides explosive detection resources at nearly every event. Since the Atlanta Braves moved to Cobb County in 2017, the Cobb County Police K9 Unit has conducted nearly 400 explosive detection deployments at Truist Park and The Battery Atlanta. The cost of one of these extraordinary police canines is $10,500.

“We are beyond appreciative of the partnership with the Cobb County Police K9 Department that provides an extra layer of protection for everyone who steps on to the property,” said Jeremy Strife, Executive Vice President of Development at The Battery Atlanta. “However, this collaboration represents more than just a security measure; it symbolizes a shared commitment to fostering a sense of safety and well-being within our community.”

In 2019, the Atlanta Braves organization provided funding for a new Cobb County Police K9 who is appropriately named “Brave,” and he continues to be a valued member of the Cobb County Police K9 Unit. He and his partner Officer Bartlett have worked countless hours to ensure the safety of players, staff and fans at Truist Park and The Battery Atlanta. In just over four years, K9 Officer Brave conducted more than 100 explosive detection deployments with 40 of these taking place at Truist Park and The Battery Atlanta.

Now, the Atlanta Braves organization has provided funding to replace another retiring Cobb County Police explosive detection dog, K9 “Lazer,” who will be retiring after nearly eight years of dedicated service. During Lazer’s career, he conducted over 400 explosive detection deployments, 111 of these being at Truist park and The Battery Atlanta. Lazer will now enjoy a well-deserved retirement life where he will live out his days with his handler, Officer Bultman.

His replacement, K9 “Champ” will also be handled by Officer Bultman and will work in that same capacity to continue to provide service to ensure the safety of players, staff and fans at Truist Park and The Battery Atlanta.