Jackson gets K-9 officer
JACKSON TWP — The township police department has added a new member.
Aron, a 19-month old German shepherd, was sworn in at the township supervisors meeting Thursday evening as the department’s new K-9 unit.
Aron comes from Shallow Creek Kennels in Sharpsville, Mercer County, after being imported from Holland in April.
He underwent a six-week training program and now is certified in narcotics detection, tracking, criminal apprehension, handler protection, article searches, and area and building searches.
Police Chief Terry Seilhamer said the K-9 program costs the department more than $13,000, which includes training. Aron will undergo required additional training of 16 hours a month.
“We were very fortunate that we already had the K-9 vehicle and the specialized equipment,” Seilhamer said.
He also said Aron was voted as having the “strongest bite” in his class.
“He was in a class with dogs trained for major police departments like Chicago, New York or Pittsburgh. It’s a first-class operation,” Seilhamer said.
The police department’s K-9 program serves communities in Beaver, Allegheny and Mercer counties along with Butler County. Aron also took his first tour of Seneca Valley High School this week.
“It’s a regional asset right now,” Seilhamer said.
Once the Evans City- Seven Fields Regional Police Department retires its K-9 program, the Jackson Township Police Department will be the only department in southwestern Butler County with a K-9 unit.
Aron takes the place of Hutch, who was retired Thursday evening. Hutch was with the force for nine years as the K-9 program’s first dog.
He now will live with patrolman Vaughan Pulgini, who was his partner throughout his time on the force. Pulgini also will be Aron’s partner.
“Being a K-9 unit owner is really a huge time commitment because you live with the dog,” Seilhamer said.
Aron was sworn in by the district judge last month and has been part of the department since.
Donations are being accepted for the K-9 program. The police department also is looking at grant options for funding.
