Graduation of Patrolman Joseph Canuso and K9 “Rio” from the New Jersey State Police K9 Training
The Medford Township Police is pleased to announce the graduation of Patrolman Joseph Canuso and K9 “Rio” from the New Jersey State Police K9 Training Academy. The graduation ceremony was held on June 19 at the New Jersey State Police Academy in Sea Girt, NJ.
The two part training focused on both patrol and scent disciplines. Patrolman Canuso and K9 “Rio” successfully completed Patrol Class #15 in February. The course prepared Patrolman Canuso and his partner for therigors of patrol duties. The training is focused on obedience and both article and building searches.
Patrolman Canuso and K9 “Rio” most recently completed Scent Class #30 on June 19. The scent course certified the K9 team in explosive material detection. The twelve week course prepared the K9 team to effectively detect explosive materials in various environments. The training incorporated the detection of fourteen types of explosives. Patrolman Canuso and K9 “Rio” trained throughout the state in order to complete both courses.
Patrolman Canuso was assigned as a K9 handler for the Medford Township Police in 2005 and this will be his second K9 partner. K9 “Nomos” retired in September 2014. Patrolman Canuso was also recognized during the ceremony for earning his Apprentice Trainer Certification in Patrol and Assistant Trainer in the Scent discipline. These instructor level certifications will assist the Medford Township Police Canine Unit in enhancing their current K9 training program.
K9 “Rio” is a twenty two month old German Shepard/Malinois that was donated by Patrolman Canuso to Medford Township. K9 “Rio” will officially start his assignment with the Medford Township Police in the Patrol Bureau on June 24, 2015.
