13 K-9 Teams Graduate in Connecticut, Ready to Enhance Public Safety

URGENT UPDATE: Thirteen newly certified K-9 teams are set to bolster public safety in Connecticut and Massachusetts following their graduation from an intensive K-9 certification class. The ceremony will take place on Monday, December 8, 2025, at 11 A.M. at Goodwin University in East Hartford, marking a significant moment for law enforcement agencies across the region.

These K-9 teams, representing 10 police departments, have successfully completed a rigorous 12-week training program that began on September 8. This advanced training ensures the teams are ready to tackle a variety of patrol work, including tracking, handler protection, and conducting thorough building or area searches.

The 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

Each K-9 is certified through the North American Police Work Dog Association and has specialized in areas such as narcotics detection, explosives, or gunshot residue analysis. This certification enhances the capabilities of local law enforcement agencies, directly impacting community safety.

Chief Mack Hawkins of the East Hartford Police Department expressed gratitude to the participating agencies for their trust in the training program, stating, “This class is a perfect example of the regional cooperation that makes our communities safer.”

He also acknowledged Sgt. Todd Mona and his team of instructors for their dedication, emphasizing that their expertise has established East Hartford’s K-9 certification programs as among the best in the region.

As these K-9 teams prepare to return to their communities equipped with new skills, residents can anticipate enhanced safety measures in their neighborhoods. The official graduation ceremony is expected to draw significant attention, highlighting the importance of K-9 units in modern policing and community relations.

Stay tuned for more updates on how these K-9 teams will impact local law enforcement efforts and community safety initiatives.