New Police Dog Makes The Force In Westport

WESTPORT, Conn. – There’s a new police dog in town. Koda, an 18-month-old Belgian Malinois from Hungary, has joined the ranks of the Westport Police Department, Lt. Arthur Belile announced Friday.

Koda and his handler, Officer James Loomer, received certification in narcotics detection and patrol work after two months of training, Belile said in a statement. The department will officially welcome Koda during a ceremony Monday.

Koda is the successor to Police Service Dog Lola, who retired in February after 10 years on the job. His name was picked from the suggestions submitted by Westport children during the department’s “Name the Dog” contest.

“The Westport Police Department would like to thank those who donated to the K9 Unit during a recent fundraising effort,” Belile said. “From the numerous donations received, the unit was able to purchase Koda, as well as a new patrol vehicle dedicated to his future service.”

The vehicle, Belile said, is equipped with a kennel system that includes a heat monitoring system. If temperature inside the car becomes too high, the system automatically rolls down the windows, activates a fan attached to the side of the kennel and alerts the K9 handler via siren and pager.    

Monday’s ceremony will begin at 1 p.m. in the classroom at police headquarters, 50 Jesup Road.

           

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