Section 505.17 - Requirements Governing the Use of K-9 Units(1) The Department shall maintain a public policy, consistent with 103 CMR 505.00, containing the requirements governing the use of K-9 Units, titled 103 DOC 558, K-9 Units.(2) The Department utilizes specially trained canines, working with trained K-9 officers who are subject to the supervision of the K-9 Unit Commander. There are several K-9 Units and, with the exception of the K-9 Patrol Unit, they are used for contraband detection. The use of canines is governed by the Department's K-9 policy.(3) Canines, when used to physically apprehend, impede, or subdue an inmate, shall constitute a use of force.(4) The K-9 Patrol Unit shall not enter a correctional institution without prior permission from the Commissioner and may only be used in order to regain control during a major disorder. The Commissioner's permission shall not preclude an inmate from filing a complaint alleging excessive force, which shall be investigated by the Professional Standards Unit under 505.21(3).(5) Only K-9 Units approved by the Commissioner shall be used within any correctional institution.Amended by Mass Register Issue 1486, eff. 1/6/2023.