Enfield Police Dog Taken Out of Service

ENFIELD, CT - The most recent addition to the Enfield Police Department's K9 division is not working out as well as anticipated, and will soon be replaced, department officials said.

Ranger, a German shepherd who has been partnered with Officer Mike Colantuono for just over a year, has been pulled from service, Chief Carl Sferrrazza said.

"He's only been with us for a little over a year, but he's not meeting the expectations we needed," Sferrazza said. "We're going to trade him in for another dog."

The chief did not provide specific examples of how Ranger was underperforming. However, he said the decision to remove the dog from service was no reflection on Colantuono's abilities.

Sferrazza said Ranger came with a guarantee, and the department will acquire another dog to replace him.

"He's young enough that they can perhaps farm him out to another agency," Sferrazza said.

Once a new dog is acquired, he and Colantuono will undergo a vigorous training program, lasting approximately 14 weeks.

Photo credit: Tim Jensen