LAKELAND, Fla. — The Lakeland Police Department is welcoming a new K-9 to its ranks and he's been named after a local hero.

Chief Special Warfare Operator Austin Rivers Irby was a Navy SEAL and a Lakeland native ... he tested and was accepted to the K-9 Unit. This dynamic duo is ready to serve their community ...

Chief Special Warfare Operator Austin Rivers Irby was a Navy SEAL and a Lakeland native ... he tested and was accepted to the K-9 Unit. This dynamic duo is ready to serve their community ...