New Hanover Township
Police Department
K9 Unit
Establishment of K9 Unit
The concept of establishing a dedicated K9 Unit for the Township Police Department was first introduced in November 2013. Thanks to the vision, commitment, and unwavering support of the Mayor and Township Committee, the initiative gained momentum quickly. Through collaborative planning, resource allocation, and community backing, the foundation for the program was laid in record time.
By March 2014, the Township's first K9 Unit was officially established, marking a significant enhancement to the department’s law enforcement capabilities. The unit was designed to assist in a variety of essential police functions, including narcotics detection, search and rescue operations, suspect apprehension, and community engagement efforts. The addition of a highly trained K9 has not only improved officer safety and operational efficiency but also strengthened the department’s connection with residents through public demonstrations and outreach events.
Since its inception, the K9 Unit has become a vital asset to the department, consistently demonstrating professionalism, effectiveness, and dedication to public safety.
CANINES
Our first K9 was donated by Jägermeister Shepherds in March of 2014. K9 Jet was a 16 month old Belgian Malinois who was imported from Italy. K9 Jet and handler Sgt. Kyle Tuliano started the Philadelphia Police Canine Academy in April of 2014 specializing in Narcotics Detection. After successfully completing Narcotics, the Team started their Patrol School training. Sgt. Tuliano and K9 Jet completed their final course of training on 12/19/2014. They successfully certified in April 2015 with the U.S.P.C.A for Narcotics Detection. K9 Jet and Sgt. Tuliano have provided assistance to various federal, state and local agencies.
K9 Duco was purchased from Logan Hause Kennels in West Virginia on July 21, 2020. K9 Duco was purchased with Drug Forfeiture Money that was seized by the New Hanover Township Police Department. K9 Duco and Ptl. Zachary York started their Narcotics and Patrol training with ADCT. Once certified, they competed in the U.S.P.C.A Regional Narcotics Detection where they excelled. K9 Duco and Ptl. York then continued their training with the Sunny Burke Canine Academy of Atlantic County. There they fine tuned their training and received their certification in Feb 2021. In May of 2021 they competed in the U.S.P.C.A National Narcotic Detection Trials where they were received their National Certification. In July 2022 handler Ptl. York was promoted to the rank of Corporal. Cpl. York and K9 Duco have provided assistance to various federal, state and local agencies.