Thursday, December 4, 2014

Cohoes PD will Showcase New K9 on Friday at Harmony Hill Elementary

Cohoes, N.Y.- Mayor Primeau and the Cohoes Police Department are pleased to announce the newest addition to the police department's fleet. The City acquired a 2015 Ford Explorer K9 Unit this past October that will be assigned to K9 Officer Sean Mckown, a 10+ year veteran on the force and his K9 dog Jeter who has served along side Mckown for 8 years.  Officer Mckown has a flawless record and has earned a very favorable reputation among other K9 handlers in the area.

K9 dog Jeter is a 9 year old Belgian Malinois who is trained and certified in narcotics detection which includes marijuana, hash, heroin, crack cocaine, cocaine and methamphetamine. Jeter is also patrol certified in criminal apprehension, tracking and evidence/article recovery. Besides being superior in performance and behavior, Jeter is also a big hit in the community and is the main attraction at community events such as National Night Out and the Safe Summer Festival or can also be seen at local schools and playgrounds.

Police Chief William Heslin states "The K9 unit has proven itself time and time again with multiple apprehensions. It's a deterrent, that's the way we look at it. People see the dog and they just know, and that is the point we are trying to get across to the public with this program."

"Having a K9 in our department is a valuable resource that has enhanced our community policing program and has helped us take a "bite" out of crime," said Assistant Police Chief James Ward.

The K9 program has been in existence for a long time and has cost the City very little money when other similar programs in the area can be very costly.  Officer Mckown takes on a lot of the financial burden and appreciates the support of local businesses, especially Boght Veterinary Clinic that periodically donates money, supplies and services to help offset the cost.

"The department's K9 program provides a great service to the Cohoes community. The acquisition of the new unit is a very positive move and long overdue.  I can't thank Officer Mckown enough for the time and dedication put forth in making this a successful program," adds Mayor George Primeau.

Members of the community and media are invited to join City of Cohoes Officials, members of the Cohoes Police Department and students for an opportunity to meet Jeter and Officer Mckown and enjoy a live demonstration. The event will be held on Friday at 1:30  p.m. at Harmony Hill Elementary School, located at Madelon K. Hickey Way, Cohoes.

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