13 New K-9 Teams Graduate, Joining Police Forces in CT & MA

URGENT UPDATE: A total of 13 new K-9 teams are set to bolster police departments across Connecticut and Massachusetts after completing an intensive training program. The graduation ceremony will take place on Monday, December 8, 2025, at 11 A.M. at Goodwin University in East Hartford.

These K-9 teams represent 10 law enforcement agencies and have completed a rigorous 12-week training course that began on September 8. The teams will return to their communities fully certified in various patrol work, including tracking, handler protection, and building or area searches. Each K-9 also specializes in a critical area such as narcotics, explosives, or gunshot residue detection.

Participating departments include:

– Hartford Police Department – 2 handlers
– New Haven Police Department – 2 handlers
– New Britain Police Department – 2 handlers
– Ansonia Police Department – 1 handler
– Putnam Police Department – 1 handler
– Suffield Police Department – 1 handler
– Groton City Police Department – 1 handler
– Vernon Police Department – 1 handler
– Wallingford Police Department – 1 handler
– Amherst, Mass. Police Department – 1 handler

Chief Mack Hawkins of the East Hartford Police Department expressed gratitude to all agencies involved in the training, stating,

“This class is a perfect example of the regional cooperation that makes our communities safer.”

He emphasized the importance of collaboration in ensuring effective policing.

The K-9s are certified through the North American Police Work Dog Association, a testament to the quality of training they have received. Sgt. Todd Mona, who led the training, has been recognized for his dedication and expertise, contributing to East Hartford’s reputation as a premier training location for K-9 teams.

This graduation not only enhances local law enforcement capabilities but also builds community trust and safety. As these K-9 teams prepare to hit the streets, their specialized skills will play a crucial role in maintaining public safety and order.

Stay tuned for more updates as these teams begin their vital work in communities across Connecticut and Massachusetts.