Newark Police K-9 Wins in Witmer-Tyson Competition

A Newark Police dogs and its human partner won two awards in the 2013 Witmer-Tyson K-9 Trials, an annual German Shepherd dog competition.

The 30th annual dog competition was held in La Honda, California last week. For two days, the dogs entered situations that simulated what law enforcement teams go through on the streets. They were tested on their ability to obey, navigate obstacles, protect their partner, and search for suspects. 25 teams from the Bay Area competed in this year’s event.

“This is a very tough competition and both teams represented NPD well, which reflects their commitment to the department and to training their K-9's,” said Commander Mike Carroll, Newark Police spokesperson.

Newark’s Officer Mavrakis and Ares, his canine companion, won first place in the “Protection” competition and tied for fourth in the “Searching” challenge. Officer Jackman and his K-9 Eliot also participated in the event.