Crime & Safety
'Ace', Niles PD's New K9 Unit, Hits The Streets
Canine Ace started work Monday as the newest member of the Niles Police Department.

NILES, IL — Monday marks the first day of work for the newest member of the Niles Police Department. He's called Ace, and he's got four legs and recently completed eight weeks of training with his partner, Canine Handler Chris Koch.
Niles PD purchased Canine Ace, a German Shephard, from Tops Kennel in Grayslake with funds from drug seizures and asset forfeitures. The department spent $12,000 on Ace, which covers the first year of training and expenses, according to Cmdr. Robert Tornabene.
Ace, who turns 2 in December, is a fully certified full service police canine who is qualified for tracking, apprehending and searching for evidence as well as drugs.
Find out what's happening in Niles-Morton Grovefor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Ace is the only police service dog currently deployed by Niles police. The department's last dog, Odin, retired in 2014 after being diagnosed with cancer.
Top photo: Niles PD's new service dog, Ace, and his handler, Officer Chris Koch
Find out what's happening in Niles-Morton Grovefor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.