Meet K-9 Nova: Orange County Sheriff’s Office Accelerant Detection K-9

Meet K9 Nova, Orange County's Arson K9 Team Member

It's not every day that a K9 gets the spotlight. So the Orange County Sheriff's Office took some time out to give a little love to one of their own: K9 Nova.

On Facebook the Orange County Sheriff's Office writes that K9 Nova is their "Accelerant Detection K‑9 Team serving communities across the Hudson Valley."

She's been part of the team since May 2024, but she first got her start at the New York State Academy of Fire Science in February 2024. There, K9 Nova was chosen for "her drive, stability and exceptional talent for accelerant detection."

What does a Accelerant Detection K9 do? According to the Orange County Sheriff's Office, K9 Nova does the following:

K9 Nova's Impressive Stats for 2025

When you see K9 Nova's stats throughout 2025, you fully understand why The Orange County Sheriff's Office is giving her the spotlight.

The press release reports that in 2025 alone, K9 Nova assisted in over 40 fire investigations. They add that she helped secure 2 arson convictions "with more cases pending."

K9 Nova also "supported multiple origin determinations and evidence recovery" and she's been recognized for her role in an arson conviction in Port Jervis.

"She's at 100% All Day Long" K9 Nova's Coworkers Gush Over Her Work Ethic

Deputy King, K9 Nova's handler credits Nova's nonstop energy that "keeps them both moving" saying : “Nova doesn’t slow down — she’s at 100% all day long. The bond and trust we share is what makes this job so meaningful.”

Orange County Sheriff Paul Arteta said in the statement:

We’re proud of this team and grateful for the vital role they play in protecting the people of Orange County.