K-9s & Handlers

#639

In service since: 2003

College: Kutztown University with a Major in Criminal Justice Graduated in December 2000

Rank: K-9 Handler/trainer for the unit. I have been the trainer since 2013 after completing a trainer course at Shallow Creek Kennels.

Why did you want to be a K-9 Handler: My dad’s cousin was a handler for a department near my hometown and I was always fascinated by how the dogs work.

What do you do for fun: Running and exercise, as well as time with my family.

Fact: In 2008 I was appointed to the position of K9 with my first partner Rocky, my second partner was Trooper. Rocky retired in 2013, Trooper retired in 2022. In 2013 I was sent to Shallow Creek Kennels to become the K9 Unit’s trainer.

Born: 11/14/20

Origin: Hungary

Breed: German Shepherd

Work talents:  Explosive locating tool, as well as keeping the City safe from criminals.  Enjoys going to work and keeping me on my toes.

What he does when he is off duty: Loves playing fetch with his kong in back yard. Relaxes (sometimes) laying outside in the sun.

#233

In service since: 2011

Rank: K-9 Officer

Why did you want to be a K-9 Handler: Prior to obtaining the K-9 handler position, I was assigned to patrol. K-9 was always a career goal of mine. Working alongside the current handlers over the course of my almost 9-year career drove me to actively pursue my dreams.

Favorite part of your Job: My favorite part of my job is the positive interactions I can have with the public, especially children and young adults.

What do you do for fun: In my free time I enjoy weight lifting and exploring new places, especially those of historical significance, with my family.

Born: March 2018

Origin: Hungary

What does he do in his off time: When Ghost is home, he enjoys playing with every dog toy in the house (our Lab was quite spoiled when she was an only dog) and playing fetch in the backyard.

#264

In service since: 2014

Rank: K-9 Officer

Why did you want to be a K-9 Handler: Since I have been employed with the Reading Police Department, I have always desired to be a K-9 Handler. I enjoy watching the dogs work and have been fascinated by their intelligence and agility. While working in patrol, I had the opportunity to see how the K-9 Unit work as a team and their commitment to the community. I have been fortunate enough to train with my personal dog, as a member of the Middle Creek Search and Rescue K-9 Team.

Favorite part of your Job: The team building aspect with my K-9 and fellow handlers. I also enjoy working with the community to build and strengthen the relationship with the Reading Police Department.

What do you do for fun: Spending time with my family, friends and training my own dog.

Date of Birth: March 14, 2021

Origin: Czech Republic

Breed: German Shepherd

Special talent: Thanos can run remarkably fast and has a stationary vertical jump that is nearly 6 feet high.

What does he do in his off time: When Thanos is not working, he loves running around in the back yard, playing with his toys.

#286

In service since: 2016

Rank: K-9 Officer

Why did you want to be a K-9 Handler: I’ve had an appreciation for K-9’s, the work that they can do and the skills that they learn. Seeing how obedient, disciplined and driven they are was always awesome to see! Once I became an officer and was able to see Police K-9’s in action I aspired to become a handler.

Favorite part of your Job: Our K-9 unit is such a tight-knit team that it makes each day of training the dogs enjoyable. There’s so much knowledge and advice shared amongst the unit that promotes all of us to make our dogs the best that they can be, which is very fun and rewarding. Also, being able to work and interact with the community at events, school functions and fund raisers is a great way to let our dogs get lots of scratches!

What do you do for fun: Spending time with my 2 kids, woodworking, cooking, gardening, and watching Phillies baseball and Eagles football!

Date of Birth: November 2nd, 2021

Origin: Hungary

Breed: Belgian Malinois

Special Talent: Using his nose is his strongest trait. He’ll track a scent for long distances, find narcotics hidden inside a suitcase and get to his favorite toy hidden under a pile of leaves.

What does he do in his off time: Chase loves to run and run and run. His high drive keeps him going and he’s always excited to be outside.

#291

In service since: 2016

Rank: K-9 Officer

Why did you want to be a K-9 Handler: Having been a dog lover my entire life I admire the working dogs work ethic and drive. I would get excited watching the dogs search a building, a vehicle, or perform bite work. Since then I always wanted to be on the other side of the leash leading the dog. 

Favorite part of your Job:

What do you do for fun: I compete in Cross Fit competitions as well as police motorcycle competitions.

Fact: I have competed in CrossFit competitions in Maryland, Pennsylvania as well as in the Mojave Desert where I placed third in my division. I also competed in a CrossFit competition during the world police and fire games hosted in the Netherlands. I tied for gold in my skill division. 

Born: 06/29/21

Origin: Hungary

Breed: German Shepherd / Belgian Malinois

Special Talent: Knowing exactly where the pepperoni and cheese are stored at in the fridge

What he does in his off time: K9 Blue enjoys chasing his pet sister Luna who is also a German Shepherd in the yard. K9 Blue is also a big lounge dog who will jump on the couch and make sure he gets his pets from his dad.