Two New K-9 Teams Added to Darien Police Service

DARIEN, CT — K-9s Argo and Grizzly have completed training and can now be seen on the streets patrolling with their human counterparts.

Officer Leslie Silva is partners with Grizzly, a 3-year-old chocolate lab and Oficer Amanda Hinkley is partnered with Argo, a 1-year-old German Shepherd.

"Grizzly' was selected as a K-9 with incredible drive and a keen ability to detect narcotics in a variety of environments," said Sgt. Jeremiah Marron Jr., police spokesman. "K-9 “Argo” was selected based on his ability to detect narcotics, his exceptional courage, physical strength, and agility."

Both were purchased from and trained by Superior K-9 Services of New Milford.

Silver and Hinkley will take on the 24/7 roles of K-9 handlers. The dogs work with them when on shift and go home with them when done.

Darien's first K-9 Zulu retired in December 2016 after he reached his ninth birthday.

"The unfortunate narcotic abuse epidemic that has unfolded in our area as well as numerous other parts of the country has demanded that we better equip ourselves to not only combat the problem but to protect our community," Marron said.

The K-9s special abilities include:

• Narcotic Detection
• Locating missing children
• Evidence Recovery
• Building Searches
• Presence As A Crime Deterrent
• Criminal Apprehension
• Public Relations

First image of K-9 Argo, second of K-9 Grizzly courtesy Officer Loomer Westport Police