In a winning tradition, local law enforcement officers and their canines have taken the title of top team in the United States.

Mower County Sgt. Jeff Ellis and five-time national champion Tazer; city officer Eric Blust and Joker; and Lt. Matt Holten and Ghost won first place overall team this week at the United States Police Canine Association 2008 National Police Dog I Field Trials in Raleigh, N.C.

Austin Police Chief Paul Philipp said the competition wrapped up today with awards; the three Belgian Malinois and their handlers will be bringing home seven total.

According to Philipp, Ellis and Tazer placed second overall and first in agility; Holten and Ghost placed fifth overall and second in search; and Blust and Joker placed sixth overall and second in agility.

At five titles, Ellis and Tazer are the winningest duo in the competition’s history.