Ashland's newest K-9

In 2019, Chief Alfano authorized the purchase and hiring of K-9 Ajax, a German Shepard, after a careful selection process performed by Sergeant Alberini, the department's handler. K-9 Ajax replaced K-9 Sgt. Dax, who retired after a long and successful career with the Ashland Police.

K-9 Ajax began training in the summer of 2019 through a training program selected by Sgt. Alberini to ensure that K-9 Ajax received the proper and appropriate training. Upon completion of his training and certification, K-9 Ajax and Sgt. Alberini hit the streets and was put to use in searching for missing persons, suspects in crimes, and building/home checks.

A special thanks to the citizens of Ashland, the Ashland Animal Hospital, and the Ashland Police Union for their continuous support in supporting the K-9 program.

PREVIOUS CANINES

Over the years, the Ashland Police Department has had a successful K-9 program. Through the years, the program has provided a valuable resource to members of the Ashland Police department. In most recent years, K-9 Sgt. Dax had a long and successful career assisting the Ashland Police as well as surrounding communities. K-9 Sgt. Dax was the first K-9 in the history of the Commonwealth to receive the George Hanna Award for bravery. Additionally, K-9 Sgt. Dax received numerous awards and accommodations for his performance in the line of duty. K-9 Sgt. Dax retired in 2020.