Jax is seen with his handler, Southwick Police officer Tom Krutka. (Photo from Southwick Police Department)
SOUTHWICK – The Southwick Police Department is looking to fill their open K-9 position since Jax, the department’s K-9 dog of 10 years retired, and they are seeking donations from the community for support of their K-9 unit.
Officially effective on May 31, Jax retired from the force and decided to live out the rest of his years as a pet when his former handler, Officer Tom Krutka, was promoted to a patrol Sergeant.
According to Chief Ricardi, he’s in the process of searching for an officer that could be the next K-9 handler. While that search is in progress, Ricardi is asking for donations of any amount from Southwick residents or anyone in the area. The purchase for a K-9
Thomas Krutka of the Southwick Police Department handles his K-9 partner, Jax, during a training and certification exercise (WNG file photo)
dog is around $8,000.
In May, Chief Ricardi posted on the department’s website information about the
pending K-9 retirement and asking the public for help in raising the money needed for a replacement. If anyone is interested in making a donation, checks can be payable to the Southwick Police Department K-9 Fund, and can be dropped off or mailed to the department at 11 Depot Street.
For further information or questions, call Ricardi at 413-569-5348, ext. 606.
