Police Thank East Haven Cop & K9 Partner In Kidnapping, Assault Case

EAST HAVEN, CT — When K9 Enzo visits with nursing center residents, or schoolchildren, he's unimposing, gentle even. Not a threatening bone in his four-legged body.

But when pressed into service for the East Haven Police Department with his partner, Officer Donato Palma, he's all business.

So, when the Clinton Police Department needed a hand last winter to track and help apprehend nine people suspected of being involved in a robbery, assault, and kidnapping, they called in for mutual aid from down the road, and Enzo and DePalma were on their way.

That cold March night, local police had a "complex situation" at Clinton Crossing Outlets and required a good tracker.

"Thanks to their quick response and K-9 Enzo’s impressive tracking abilities, they helped with the apprehension of nine suspects," East Haven police wrote on Facebook Friday. "K-9 Enzo was able to locate illegal narcotics and the facsimile firearm that was used to threaten the victim, leading to multiple serious charges against the suspects. This couldn’t have been done without the teamwork between Officer Palma and Enzo—truly an outstanding job."

Such an outstanding job in fact that Thursday night, Officer Donato Palma and K-9 Enzo were recognized by the Clinton Police Department for their assistance.

"We’re proud to see their dedication recognized and grateful for their ongoing commitment to keeping our community safe," police wrote. "Great job, Officer Palma and K-9 Enzo!"