The 2015 Western Connecticut Police K-9 Challenge was held over the weekend as a benefit for the Newtown Kennel Club and the Friends of Second Company Governor's Horse Guard.  More than 30 teams of handler and active duty police and military K-9's from area towns, along with the MTA K-9 unit in New York City and the 928th Military Police Army National Guard participated at the event. 

K-9 Czar apprehending his "suspect," Newtown Police Officer Matt Hayes

(Photo credit: David S. Woo)

Based on cumulative points earned in the individual events of obstacle course, article find, obedience, and suspect apprehension, the Norwalk Police Department K9 Czar won first place overall.  Czar is trained on narcotics and patrol.  Second place overall went to Ridgefield Police K9 Loki, who is trained in patrol.  The 3rd place award went to Naugatuck Police K9 Vane, who is patrol certified. 

Ridgefield Police OfficerShawn Murray, K9 Loki (Photo credit: Ridgefield Police)

Loki also  placed 1st in the obstacle event and 3rd for best K9.

K-9 Saint Michael (with Officer Felicia Figol from the Newtown PD) shows off his skills in an Obedience demonstration (Photo credit: David S. Woo)