The handler and canine teams that successfully completed the Patrol K-9 training program. (Photo Courtesy Town of Groton Police Department)
GROTON — The Town of Groton Police Department hosted a graduation ceremony on Jan. 8, recognizing law enforcement officers from multiple agencies who successfully completed an 11-week Patrol K-9 training program conducted through the department’s K-9 Training Unit.
The program, governed by the North American Police Work Dog Association (NAPWDA), is designed to be intentionally demanding. Handlers and canines are tested physically, mentally and emotionally to prepare them for the realities of Patrol K-9 work. Teams completed certification in patrol operations, tracking, evidence recovery, handler protection and narcotics detection.
“This school is intentionally difficult,” said NAPWDA Master Trainer Shawn Lisee, lead instructor for the program. “The work these teams are preparing to do requires absolute trust, consistency, and resilience. Over these 11 weeks, they didn’t just learn skills. They built the bond that allows a handler and K-9 to function as one under pressure.”
Police K-9 teams play a critical role in modern law enforcement, assisting with suspect searches, tracking missing or fleeing individuals, recovering evidence and protecting officers and the public during high-risk incidents.
“This is a proud day for everyone involved,” said Town of Groton Police Chief Louis Fusaro. “These handlers have demonstrated the commitment and discipline required for one of the most challenging and respected assignments in law enforcement. Graduation marks the beginning of their service as Patrol K-9 teams.”
Chief Fusaro recognized Lisee for his leadership as lead instructor, along with Sgt. Tyler DeAngelo, Groton Police K-9 Unit Supervisor, and the instructional staff who supported the program:
- Officer Dan Lane and Officer Nick Genung (Waterford, Connecticut Police Department)
- Officer Dan Pennellatore (Worcester, Massachusetts Police Department)
- Officer Bill Langman (East Lyme, Connecticut Police Department)
The following teams successfully completed the Patrol K-9 training program:
- Officer Chris Baldwin and K-9 Bruce (Pawtucket, Rhode Island Police Department)
- Officer Seth Bolduc and K-9 Vic (New London, Connecticut Police Department)
- Officer Cory Torres and K-9 Eve; Officer Mitchel Carrier and K-9 Benny (Westerly, Rhode Island Police Department)
- Officer Evan Zavickas and K-9 Remy (Groton, Connecticut Police Department)
Chief Fusaro also acknowledged the families of the handlers, noting that K-9 partnerships require time, trust and sacrifice beyond the training environment.
The Town of Groton Police Department congratulates all graduating teams and thanks the instructors, participating agencies and families for their continued support of law enforcement K-9 programs.
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From left, NAPWDA Master Trainer Shawn Lisee, Pawtucket Police Officer Chris Baldwin, Town of Groton Police Officer Evan Zavickas, Westerly Police Officer Mitchel Carrier, New London Police Officer Seth Bolduc, and Westerly Police Officer Cory Torres. (Photo Courtesy Town of Groton Police Department)
