Announcements

On 1/28/22 Connecticut Police Work Dog Association Director James Cortina presented K9 memorial plaques on behalf of the CPWDA membership to Department of Correction Officer Aaron Bowman for the loss of his retired k9 partner Striker on 1/14/22. Officer Bowman and K9 Striker joined the CPWDA on 12/27/13 and became Lifetime members on 2/20/15 until K9 Striker passed at the age of 11 years old. Also James Cortina presented Officer Bowman with the United States War Dogs Association plaque, patch and bandana on behalf of Florida Chapter 2 Director Barbara Snow for his years of service with striker.

On 9/21/21 the Connecticut Police Work Dog Association held a class in Clinton, Connecticut at the town hall for K9 handlers. "Civil Liability Protection for the K9 Handler" instructed by Taylor Rahn who is a partner at the Albuaqueraue law Firm, Robles, Rael & Anava, P.C. The class was filled to capacity with 52 K9 handlers attending from 27 police departments. Connecticut Police Work Dog Association Board Directors in photo from L-R Sergeant James Antonelli of Danbury P.D., North West Vice-President; CPWDA Treasurer James Cortina; CPWDA President Frank Reda; Class Instructor Taylor Rahn; and Officer Dave Peterson, of Norwalk P.D. South West Vice-President.

On 9/21/21 the Connecticut Police Work Dog Association held a free class for CPWDA members in Clinton, Connecticut at the town hall for K9 handlers. “Civil Liability Protection for the K9 Handler” instructed by Taylor Rahn who is a partner at the Albuquerque law firm , Robles, Rael & Anaya, P.C. The class was filled to capacity with 52 K9 handlers attending from 27 police departments. Police Departments that had K9 officers attending from Connecticut were; Clinton, Norwalk, East Lyme, Groton Town, Waterford, Wallingford, Stamford, Fairfield, Wilton, Bridgeport, East Haven, Portland, Seymour, Easton, Trumbull, Killingly, Westport, Danbury, Madison, Newtown, Ansonia, Darien, Brookfield, Willimantic, Ridgefield, EnCon and one from out of state, Lewisboro, New York. All were treated to breakfast and lunch and all attendees received certificates for attending class.

Connecticut Police Work Dog Association Director, James Cortina, presented a C.P.W.D.A. K9 Memorial Plaque to Officer Danny Macaulay of the Vernon Police Department on 6/9/20 for his many years of service with the C.P.W.D.A. for his now deceased K9 partner "Pito" who passed away on 7/16/17. K9 Pito was born on 11/25/05 and passed away on 7/16/17 at the age of 12 years old due to cancer. Officer Danny Macaulay and K9 Pito joined the C.P.W.D.A. on 7/29/09 and were members until K9 Pito's passing. Also James Cortina presented a K9 Memorial Plaque to Officer Macaulay on behalf of the United States War Dogs Association and thanks Barbara Snow who is the Director of the U.S.W.D.A. Chapter 2 in Florida and U.S.W.D.A. President Ronald Aiello from New Jersey.

CPWDA Board Members presented CPWDA K9 Memorial Plaques along with The United States War Dogs Association plaques, bandana's and patches for CPWDA Members who's K9's passed away. (L to R) CPWDA Vice-President Sergeant James Antonelli of the Danbury Police Department; CPWDA Treasurer James Cortina; CPWDA President Officer Dan Lane of the Waterford Police Department; Officer Shawn Lisee of the Groton Town Police Department receiving plaques for his deceased K9 partner "Nico"; Sgt. Fabian Silva with the Willimantic Police Department receiving plaques for his deceased K9 partner "Fina"; CPWDA Secretary Officer Dave Buck of the Meriden Police Department; CPWDA Vice-President Officer David Peterson of Norwalk Police Department; and CPWDA Vice President of the Western Region Sergeant Frank Reda of the Westport Police Department,; Special thank you to Executive Director Barbara Snow of The United States War Dog Association for her dedication and her endless hours of devotion for K9's all over the country. Meeting was held on 12/16/18 in Bridgeport at the Bass Pro Shop and members treated to Uncle Bucks Fish Bowl & Grill for dinner and gift cards given for prizes.

Connecticut Police Work Dog Association Director, James Cortina, presents a K9 memorial plaque on behalf of the C.P.W.D.A. to Officer Jeffrey Nichols of the New London Police Department on 11/2/19 for his many years of his service with the C.P.W.D.A with his now deceased K9 partner "Bessie". Also James Cortina presented a plaque to Officer Nichols on behalf of the United States War Dogs Association and thanks Barbara Snow who is the Director of the U.S.W.D.A. Chapter 2 from Florida and U.S.W.D.A. President Ronald Aiello from New Jersey.

On October 9, 2019 Connecticut Police Work Dog Association held a seminar free of charge for it's members which was held at Ocean Beach in the Port n Starboard and attended by 139 officers. CPWDA President Dan Lane and CPWDA Director James Cortina presented a plaque to instructor Daniel King for instructing the seminar "Defending Your Use of Forch". Daniel King has been with the Las Vegas, Nevada agency since 1998. Daniel King conducts administrated investigations into officer - involved shootings, use-of-force incidents and critical incidents. He has been a Patrol Officer, K9 Handler (Patrol and Narcotics), SWAT Officer, Acting Sergeant, Street Crimes Detective and Training Officer. Daniel is a Use of Force, Instructor Development, Excited Delirium, and Master Taser Instructor. He is also a firearms trainer for his department. Daniel is a Force Science Analyst and Certified Litigation Specialist in Police Use of Force. In 2000, he was voted the state of Nevada VFW Officer of the Year. In 2014, Dan was voted his agency’s Specialized Unit Officer of the Year. He has twice been awarded the department Medal of Valor. C.P.W.D.A. provided free breakfast and lunch for those attending the seminar. Department attending from Connecticut were Waterford P.D., Vernon P.D., Bloomfield P.D., New London P.D. , Enfield P.D., Stratford P.D., Danbury P.D. , Berlin P.D., Milford P.D., Groton Town P.D., Wethersfield P.D., Fairfield P.D., Willimantic P.D., Bethel P.D., Bristol P.D., Wallingford P.D., Brookfield P.D., Norwalk P.D., Killingly P.D., Hartford P.D., Ansonia P.D., West Hartford P.D., Cheshire P.D., New Haven P.D., Torrington P.D., Ridgefield P.D., Seymour P.D., Madison P.D., Ledyard P.D., Middletown P.D., East Haven P.D., Connecticut State Police, & Central Connecticut Hospital. Police departments attending from Massachusetts were Lawrence P.D., Londonderry P.D., Grafton P.D., Uxbridge P.D., Revere P.D., Marlborough P.D., Worcester P.D., Boston P.D., & Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection. Departments attending from Rhode Island were Cranston P.D. & Rhode Island Department of Corrections. Department from New York was the M.T.A. All attending received certificates.

CPWDA Board Members presented CPWDA K9 Memorial Plaques along with The United States War Dogs Association plaques, bandana's and patches for CPWDA Members who's K9's passed away. (L) Holding plaque, Officer Jeffrey Loomis of Monroe Police Department for his K9 Gunner, (R) Holding plaque, Sergeant Jason Venditto of Hamden Police Department for his K9 Viking. Back row; Board Member Officer Dave Buck of the Meriden Police Department; Vice-President Sergeant James Antonelli of the Danbury Police Department, Board Treasurer James Cortina; CPWDA President Officer Dan Lane of the Waterford Police Department; Vice-President Officer David Peterson of Norwalk Police Department; and Sergeant Frank Reda of the Westport Police Department, Vice President of the Western Region; Special thank you to Executive Director Barbara Snow of The United States War Dog Association for her dedication and her endless hours of devotion for K9's all over the country and the President of The United States War Dog Association, Ronald Aiello for sending their items up from Florida and donating Muttlucks to protect our K9'S Paws. Meeting was held on 12/12/18 in Bridgeport at the Bass Pro Shop and members treated to Uncle Bucks Fish Bowl & Grill for dinner and gifts given to those who attended.

The Connecticut Police Work Dog Association held a "Hidden Comartments In Motor Vehicles" on 9/19/18 at Port N Starboard located at Ocean Beach in New London Pictured from L to R, CPWDA Director Officer James Antonelli of Danbury Police Department, CPWDA President Dan Lane of Waterford Police Department, Instructor Sergeant TJ Cullen of Trap Door L.L.C., instructor Lenny Cottrell (Lieutenant ret.) of Trap Door L.L.C., CPWDA Director Officer Dave Peterson of Norwalk Police Department and CPWDA Director James Cortina.

One Hundred seventeen police officers from Connecticut, Massachusetts and Rhode Island signed up for the "Hidden Compartments in Motor Vehicles" All attended free, paid for by CPWDA and received certificates from the Connecticut Police Work Dog Association. A great free lunch was provided to all also. Connecticut departments that signed up were CSP Troop A, CT DOC, Meriden PD, Fairfield PD, Brookfield PD, Montville PD, Cheshire PD, Windsor PD, Ledyard PD, Norwalk PD, Torrington PD, Suffield PD, Willimantic PD, Bloomfield PD, Bristol PD, New London PD, Ansonia PD, Wilton PD, New Haven PD, Danbury PD, Southington PD, Stratford PD, Wethersfield PD, Groton Town PD & Orange P.D. Departments that signed up from Massachusetts were Belmont PD, Worcester PD, Uxbridge PD, & Millbury PD. Departments that signed up from Rhode Island were RI State Police, Cranston PD, Middletown PD, & Warwick PD .

The Connecticut Police Work Dog Association held a K9 Supervisor Seminar on May 22nd - 24th, 2018 held in Waterford, CT. Instructors giving the class were Superintendent Bob Wright (Ret.) Niagara Regional Police from Canada & Sergeant Trent Crump (Ret.) Phoenix Police Department. All attending the seminar received certificates. CPWDA thanks Filomena's Resturant and their staff for the use of their facility and the great food provided to all. Instructors were treated to dinners On the Waterfront, Captain Scotts & Dog Watch Cafe during their stay. Some of the police departments attending in Connecticut were Connecticut State Police, Connecticut Department of Correction, Vernon P.D., West Hartford P.D., New London P.D., Montville P.D.,Bristol P.D., Wallingford P.D., Danbury P.D., Wethersfield P.D., Fairfield P.D., Stratford P.D., Monroe P.D., Meriden P.D., Groton Town P.D., Willimantic P.D., and Darien P.D. Out of state departments that attended were Uxbridge P.D. from MA, Wawrick P.D. from Rhode Island and Brentwood P.D. from New Hampshire. Photo from (L) to (R) CPWDA Director, James A. Cortina; Filomena's Restaurant owner, Mike Buscetto; CPWDA President Waterford police officer Daniel Lane.

Photo from (L) to R) CPWDA President Officer Daniel Lane, Waterford Police Department; Instructor Superintendent Bob Wright (Ret.) Niagara Regional Police from Canada; Instructor, Sergeant Trent Crump (Ret.) Phoenix Police Department; and CPWDA Director James A. Cortina. Both instructors held a K9 Supervisor Seminar on May 22nd - 24th, 2018 held in Waterford, CT.

CPWDA Board Members presented CPWDA K9 Memorial Plaques along with The United States War Dogs Association plaques, bandana's and patches for CPWDA Members who's K9's passed away. (L TO R) Board Member Sgt. James Antonelli of the Danbury Police Department, Board Member Sgt Frank Reda, Vice President of the Western Region; receiving K9 Memorial plaque Sgt. Robert Durkin of Bethel Police Department plaque for his K9 Asco; CPWDA President Officer Dan Lane of the Waterford Police Department, Receiving K9 Memorial plaque, Joseph Phelps of Rocky Hill Police Department for his K9 Ranger; Board Member Officer Dave Buck of the Meriden Police Department; receiving K9 memorial plaque John Zavalick of East Hartford Police Department for his K9 Axel; Board Member Officer Dave Peterson of the Norwalk Police Department; and Board Member James Cortina, Special thank you to Executive Director Barbara Snow of The United States War Dog Association for her dedication and her endless hours of devotion for K9's all over the country and the President of The United States War Dog Association, Ronald Aiello for sending their items up from Florida. Meeting was held on 1/23/18 in Bridgeport at the Bass Pro Shop and all members attending treated to Uncle Bucks Fishbowl & Grill.3

CPWDA Board Members presented awards for the top K9 Detection Award and the top K9 Tracking Award for 2016 in the state of Connecticut. (L TO R ) Board Member Sgt James Antonelli of the Danbury Police Department, Board member Officer Dave Peterson of the Norwalk Police Department, Officer Paul Hussey and K9 Titan, recipient of the 2016 top Detection Award with the Willimantic Police Department, Board Member James Cortina, Officer Matthew Sloate and K9 Marley, recipient of the 2016 top Tracking Award of the New Britain Police Department, Board Member Officer Dan Lane of the Waterford Police Department, Board Member Officer Dave Buck of the Meriden Police Department and Board Member Sgt. Frank Reda of the Westport Police Department. CPWDA congratulates Officer Paul Hussey & K9 Titan along with Officer Matthew Sloate and K9 Marley for their outstanding awards for 2016. Meeting was held on 6/27/17 in Bridgeport at the Bass Pro Shop and all members attending treated to Uncle Bucks Fishbowl & Grill.

CPWDA Board Members presented CPWDA K9 Memorial Plaques along with The United States War Dogs Association plaques, bandana's and patches for CPWDA Members who's K9's passed away. (L TO R) Board Member Sgt. James Antonelli of the Danbury Police Department, Sgt Bill Finucane receiving CPWDA K9 Memorial plaque along with The United States War Dog Association plaque for his K9 McCarney of the New York M.T.A., Board Member Officer Dave Peterson of the Norwalk Police Department, Detective Rosario Savastra receiving CPWDA K9 Memorial plaque along with The United States War Dog Association plaque for his K9 Reign of the West Hartford Police Department, Board Member James Cortina, Officer Leslie Silva receiving CPWDA K9 Memorial plaque along with The United States War Dog Association plaque for her K9 Grizzly of the Darien Police Department, Board Member Officer Dan Lane of the Waterford Police Department, Board Member Officer Dave Buck of the Meriden Police Department and Board Member Sgt Frank Reda of the Westport Police Department. A special thank you to Executive Director Barbara Snow of The United States War Dog Association for her dedication and her endless hours of devotion for K9's all over the country and the President of The United States War Dog Association, Ronald Aiello for sending their items up from Florida. Meeting was held on 6/27/17 in Bridgeport at the Bass Pro Shop and all members attending treated to Uncle Bucks Fishbowl & Grill.

New CPWDA Directors voted into office are (Front Row Right) Sgt. James Antonelli of Danbury Police Department; (Back Row Right) Officer David Peterson of Norwalk Police Department. Current Directors holding office that welcomed the new Directors are (Front Row Left) James Cortina, CPWDA Treasurer; Back row (Left to Right) CPWDA President Officer Danny Lane of Waterford Police Department; CPWDA Secretary, Officer David Buck, Meriden Police Department; and Sgt. Frank Reda, CPWDA Vice-President, Western Region, Norwalk Police Department. Meeting was held in Bridgeport on 12/19/16.

CPWDA Board Directors presented a K9 memorial plaque to Sgt. Bill Finucane of the M.T.A. Police Department K9 Unit for K9 McCarney. (L to R) Officer David Peterson of Norwalk Police Department; CPWDA Secretary, Officer David Buck, Meriden Police Department; James Cortina, CPWDA Treasurer; Sgt. Bill Finucane; Sgt. Frank Reda, CPWDA Vice-President, Western Region, Norwalk Police Department; CPWDA President Officer Danny Lane of Waterford Police Department; and Sgt. James Antonelli of Danbury Police Department. Meeting was held in Bridgeport on 12/19/16.

CPWDA congratulates the winners of the $100 K9 Gift Certificates. (L to R) Officer Richard Carlson of Trumbull Police Department; Officer David Scinto of Westport Police Department; Officer David Peterson of Norwalk Police Department; Sgt. James Antonelli of Danbury Police Department; and Insp. James Imbert of the Federal Protective Service Department of Homeland Security. Also two winners of $250 gift certificates which are not shown in picture, Deputy Joseph Martel of the Albany County Sheriff's Office, New York and Officer Derik Schmidt of Schenectady County Sheriff's Office, New York. Meeting was held in Bridgeport on 12/19/16.

Master of Ceremonies, Sgt. James Antonelli,(L) from Danbury Police Department presented a $100,000 check to CPWDA President, Officer Danny Lane (Center )from Waterford Police Department and CPWDA Treasurer James Cortina.(R) The very generous donation was given on behalf of the Estate of Kenneth M. Gleszer at the Danbury Police Department on 11/16/16.

Front Row (L to R ) Master of Ceremonies Sgt. James Antonelli of Danbury Police Department; Lt. William Scribner, New Milford Police Department; James Cortina, CPWDA Treasurer; Stephanie Griffin. Back Row (L to R) Officer Daniel Lane, CPWDA President, Waterford Police Department; Officer Paul Hussey, Willimantic Police Department; Rose Salazar; Ret. Detective Randy Salazar, Danbury Police Department; Attorney E. O'Malley; Doug Griffin; Jill Griffin; and Douglas Griffin. Family members of Kenneth Gleszer--Douglas (step-son) and his wife Jill Griffin and Doug Griffin II (grandson) and his wife Stephanie Griffin were in attendance during the presentation at Danbury Police Department on 11/16/16.

CPWDA congratulates Officer David Dogali and K9 Bobi. On 10/8/16 Officer Dave Dogali and K9 Bobi who represented the Stamford Police Department took top honors at the 2016 Western Connecticut K-9 Challenge on the grounds of the Second Company Governor's Horse Guard in Newtown, CT. K9 Bobi, 8 years - old, finished first for the Best Overall Team and placed third for Best Handler. Drills covered suspect apprehension, an obstacle course and tactical obedience. David and K9 Bobi have been CPWDA Lifetime Members since 9/2/09.

A special thank you to the United States War Dogs Association Board of Directors for acknowledging our CPWDA members who's canines past away and had provided an invaluable service to the citizens in their towns. A well disserved salute for all the sacrifices military service dogs have provided to keep us safe.... past, present & future and provide us with an invaluable service to our country. (L to R) Officer Justin Deloy of Torrington Police Department; Sergeant Jeffrey Osuch of Brookfield Police Department and Sgt Erica Vieira of University of Rhode Island Police Department. Meeting held in West Hartford on 9/27/16.

CPWDA presented plaques, certificates, patches and bandanas on behalf of the United States War Dogs Association to the following holding plaques (L to R) Sergeant Jeffrey Osuch of Brookfield Police Department for K9 Bruno, Sgt Erica Vieira of University of Rhode Island Police Department for K9 Maxwell and Officer Justin Deloy of Torrington Police Department for K9 Brodie; Board Members (L to R) Ofc. Danny Lane, CPWDA President, Waterford Police Department; CPWDA Secretary, David Buck, Meriden Police Department; James Cortina, CPWDA Treasurer; and Sgt. Frank Reda, CPWDA Vice-President, Western Region, Norwalk Police Department. Missing from photo are Officer Anthony Lucca of the Rhode Island Department of Corrections for K9 Brock; Ofc. Richard Boyle, Vice-President Central Division, Manchester Police Department for K9 Marco. A special thank you goes out to Barbara Snow , Executive Director of the U.S. War Dogs Association, Southern Chapter 2 for all her hard work along with the Board of Directors for the United States War Dog Association in Florida. Plaques were presented on 9/27/16 in West Hartford.

CPWDA Board of Directors presented K9 memorial plaques to (L to R holding plaques) Sergeant Jeffrey Osuch of Brookfield Police Department for K9 Bruno, Sgt. Erica Vieira of the University of Rhode Island Police Department for K9 Maxwell, and Officer Justin Deloy of the Torrington Police Department for K9 Brodie. Board Members from (L to R) James Cortina, CPWDA Treasurer; Ofc. Danny Lane, CPWDA President, Waterford Police Department; CPWDA Secretary, David Buck, Meriden Police Department; and Sgt. Frank Reda, CPWDA Vice-President, Western Region, Norwalk Police Department. Plaques were presented on 9/27/16 in West Hartford.

After 23 years of dedicated service to the Norwalk Police Department, Sergeant Frank Reda retired on 9/27/16. During his career, Sergeant Reda worked in the Community Police Unit, Special Services Unit and the Patrol Division. Sergeant Reda also commanded the NPD K-9 Unit, handling Police Service Dogs Czar and Rocco. As a master trainer, Sgt. Reda has also trained numerous police K-9's throughout the area. Frank began working, breeding and training dogs since 1986, where he began competing in working events and achieved six Tri States champions with 4 different dogs with one titling as a National champion. His love for training working breeds translated into his police career which began in 1993. Sgt Reda was the winner of the prestigious Daniel Wasson Memorial K9 Award with his K9 partner Czar in 2010 and 2011 and also Winner of 2015 Western CT K9 Challenge. Frank also served as Head regional K9 trainer Fairfield County Region 3, was Former President of CT K9 Club and a Certified Trainer for CT. Police Work Dog Association and instructor in K9 applications and use of force. Some of Sgt. Reda's awards include Courage of CT Award for K9 application, Officer of The Year Award for K9 application, Police Service Cross for K9 application along with 12 Certificates of Merit Commendations for K9 applications. Frank was also an instructor in K9 applications and use of force, Emergency Services Unit member, Federal expert witness in narcotic detection and K9 Subject Matter Expert for the Department of Homeland Security. Reda has been a member of the Connecticut Police Work Dog association since 1998 and was elected to the CPWDA Board of Directors to serve as Vice-President of the Western Region in 2015. Norwalk Police Department will certainly miss him and we all thank you for your service.

CPWDA Board Directors ,President Dan Lane from Waterford Police Department and James Cortina presented two K9 memorial plaques to Officer Anthony Lucca on 6/28/16 for his K9 partner Brock who passed away unexpectedly on 6/1/16. Plaques were presented on the grounds of the Rhode Island Correctional facility. Master Trainer Lucca and K9 Brock were lifetime members joining on 1/14/13.

The CPWDA Board of Directors unanimously voted and presented Ofc. James Comstock and K9 Pogo of the Stamford Police Department with the top K9 Detection Award for 2015. (left to right ) Ofc. Daniel Lane, CPWDA President, Waterford Police Department; Sgt. Frank Reda, Vice - President Western Division, Norwalk Police Department; Ofc. James Comstock of the Stamford Police Department receiving award; Ofc. David Buck, CPWDA Secretary, Meriden Police Department; James Cortina, CPWDA Treasurer and Ofc. Paul Hussey, Vice President Eastern Region, Willimantic Police Department; Meeting was held in West Hartford on 5/31/16.

The CPWDA Board of Directors, Ofc. Daniel Lane, CPWDA President, Waterford Police Department; Sgt. Frank Reda, Vice-President Western Region, Norwalk Police Department; Ofc. David Buck, CPWDA Secretary, Meriden Police Department; Ofc. Paul Hussey, Vice-President Eastern Region, Willimantic Police Department; Ofc. Richard Boyle, Vice-President of Central Region, Manchester Police Department; and James Cortina, CPWDA Treasurer unanimously voted and awarded Ofc. John Mahon and K9 Arno of the Southington Police Department with the top K9 Tracking Award for 2015. Meeting was held in West Hartford on 5/31/16.

The CPWDA Board of Directors presented a K9 memorial plaque to Ofc. Matt Lima of the New Milford Police Department for K9 Judge (left to right) Ofc. Daniel Lane, CPWDA President, Waterford Police Department; Sgt. Frank Reda, Vice - President Western Division, Norwalk Police Department; Det. Matt Lima of Milford Police Department receiving memorial plaque; Ofc. David Buck, CPWDA Secretary, Meriden Police Department; James Cortina, CPWDA Treasurer and Ofc. Paul Hussey, Vice President Eastern Region, Willimantic Police Department; Meeting was held in West Hartford on 5/31/16.

CPWDA Director, James A. Cortina, presented K9 Jasper's memorial plaque on behalf of CPWDA Board of Directors and the membership to Officer Todd Lynch of the New London Police Department on 5/1/16 for Jasper who sadly passed away on 4/24/16. Officer Lynch was fortunate to have his crime fighting partner for eleven years. Officer Lynch has been a member of the CPWDA since 2/20/08 and everyone in the membership sends their condolences. Fellow police officer's as well as the City of New London will miss Jasper for keeping them safe.

CPWDA held a dinner for police instructors and trainers who attended the K9 Narcotics Distraction and Exposure Training Course which was held at the New Britain Police Department on 3/29/16 and finished on 3/30/16 in Groton, Connecticut. Police K9 officers from CT, MA, NY, RI, and PA. that helped CPWDA were presented plaques during a dinner at the Water Front Restaurant in New London, Connecticut on 3/29/16. CPWDA Director James Cortina was honored with a presentation from the United States War Dogs Association, Chapter 2 in Florida, for his contributions in the K9 Law Enforcement world. Barbara Snow, Executive Director of the U.S. War Dogs Assoc also awarded Jim with the United States Military Working Dog Service Award Medal.

CPWDA President, Dan Lane of Waterford Police Department, 2nd from right, and CPWDA Treasurer, James Cortina, far left , presented a retirement plaque for K9 Primo's retirement to Officer Todd Mona of East Hartford Police Department as Officer Tom Lazure of West Hartford Police Department , 2nd from left, looks on. Held at East Hartford Police Department on 1/28/16.

Officer's attending 25 year anniversary of East Hartford K9 Unit. (Front Row L to R) CPWDA President Ofc. Dan Lane from Waterford P.D.; Ofc. Shane Murphy, Wethersfield P.D.; Ofc. Emily Carrasquillo, New Britain P.D.; Ofc. Billy Proulx, East Hartford P.D.; Ofc. Robert Kornfeld, East Hartford P.D.; Ofc. Todd Mona and K9 Primo, East Hartford P.D.; James A. Cortina, CPWDA Director,; Ofc. Tommy Lazure, West Hartford P.D. (Back Row L to R) Ofc Devin Saylor, New Britain P.D.; Ofc. Dave Rhodes, East Hartford P.D.; Ofc. Steven Grossi, East Hartford P.D.; Ofc. Matt Labbe, Hartford P.D.; Ofc John Zavalick, East Hartford P.D.; Ofc. Joe Mauro, Hartford P.D.; Ofc. Joe Walsh, Hartford P.D. Held at East Hartford Police Department on 1/28/16.

Past and present members of East Hartford Police K9 Unit celebrating 25 year anniversary of East Hartford K9 Unit. (L to R) Ofc. Todd Mona and K9 Primo, Ofc. Steve Grossi, Ofc. Dave Rhodes, Ofc. Robert Kornfeld, Ofc Billy Proulx, and Ofc. John Zavalick. held at East Hartford Police Department on 1/28/16.

K9 retirement plaque presented by CPWDA President Danny Lane and Director James Cortina on behalf of the CPWDA membership held at East Hartford Police Department on 1/28/16.

Cake celebrating East Hartford's 25 year anniversary of their K9 Unit and K9 Primo's retirement cake held at East Hartford Police Department on 1/28/16.

On behalf of the CPWDA Board of Directors and members, CPWDA Director, James Cortina, presented Officer Gary Coates of the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Police Department a K9 Memorial plaque in memory of K9 Lex, an Explosive Detection K9 who succumbed to cancer at 2.5 years old on 10/30/15. The plaque was presented at the Mashantucket Police Department on 12/30/15.

The CPWDA Board of Directors presented a K9 memorial plaque to U.S. Marshall Freddy Gengler for K9 Argo. (left to right) Ofc. Richard Boyle, Vice-President Central Division, Manchester Police Department; Ofc. Danny Lane, CPWDA President, Waterford Police Department; U.S. Marshall Freddy Gengler; James Cortina, CPWDA Treasurer; and Ofc. Frank Reda, Vice - President Western Division, Norwalk Police Department. Meeting was held in West Hartford on 12/17/15.

CPWDA President Danny Lane and Treasurer man the booth at the Connecticut Convention Center in Hartford on 10/24/15 and 10/25/15.

CPWDA members Officer Todd Mona and Officer Steve Grossi from East Hartford Police Department man the booth at the Connecticut Convention Center in Hartford on 10/24/15 and 10/25/15.

Officer Steve Grossi and K9 Hades from the East Hartford Police Department giving a K9 demo for the crowd at the Connecticut Convention Center in Hartford on 10/24/15 and 10/25/15.

Officer Todd Mona and K9 Primo from the East Hartford Police Department giving a K9 demo for the crowd at the Connecticut Convention Center in Hartford on 10/24/15 and 10/25/15. Kallen Freeman is the decoy.

The CPWDA Board of Directors presented K9 memorial plaques as follows: Ofc. Steve Salerno, Southington Police Department for K9 Damon (3rd from left); Ofc. Dennis Bradshaw, Monroe Police Department for K9 Liberty (center); and Ofc. Shawn Murray, Ridgefield Police Department for K9 Zeus (3rd from right). The following CPWDA Board Members that were present are as follows: Ofc. David Buck, CPWDA Secretary, Meriden Police Department (far left); Ofc. Daniel Lane, CPWDA President, Waterford Police Department (2nd from left); James Cortina, CPWDA Treasurer (2nd from right); and Ofc. Paul Hussey, Vice President Eastern Region, Willimantic Police Department (far right). Meeting was held in West Hartford on 9/22/15.

Top K9 team in New England honored at Fenway Park

Officer Tommy Lazure and K9 Jett of West Hartford Police Department were selected as top team in New England during pregame ceremony at Fenway Park on 7/27/15. They were selected for an incident that occurred on July 31, 2014. West Hartford, Connecticut Police Department K-9 Jett and his handler, Police Officer Thomas Lazure responded to the scene of an attempted carjacking where a suspect had fired several shots at an individual. While enroute to the scene, the car jack suspect fired a weapon at a Hartford, CT Police Officer and the gun malfunctioned. K-9 Jett was deployed with the Hartford SWAT team to track the subject. K-9 Jett established an air scent and located the subject in an unlit residential backyard. Knowing the suspect had already fired his weapon at a Hartford Police Officer, Police Officer Tom Lazure had seconds to decide if he should release K-9 Jett to apprehend the suspect. The suspect was combative with K-9 Jett but was ultimately taken into custody. Officer Lazure and K9 Jett were also the recipents of the prestigious Daniel Wasson K9 Memorial Award in 2013 and 2014 which is presented the the top police K9 team in Connecticut. Officer Lazure and K9 Jett have been members of the Connecticut Police Work Dog Association since 2011. Six K9 teams were picked throughout New England. Another Connecticut Team was Norwalk K9 members, two New Hampshire teams, one team from Maine and one team from Vermont.

CPWDA Board of Directors present Master Trainer Franco Angelini a plaque for a decoy class he instructed from 5/18/15 through 5/21/15 which was hosted by Waterford Police Department. (L to R) CPWDA Treasurer James Cortina; Master Trainer Franco Angelini; CPWDA President Officer Danny Lane of Waterford Police Department; CPWDA Secretary, Officer Dave Buck of the Meriden Police Department.

On 5/8/15, CPWDA held a free class for it's members at the New Britain Police Department. "First Aid for the Law Enforcement Canine" was instructed by Dr Paul McNamara DVM DACVS. (L to R) Sgt. Frank Reda of Norwalk Police Department, CPWDA Vice-President Western Region; James Cortina, CPWDA Treasurer; Dr. Paul McNamara and CPWDA President Daniel Lane of Waterford Police Department presenting a plaque to Dr. Paul McNamara on behalf of the CPWDA members.

The CPWDA Board of Directors presented a K9 memorial plaque to Sgt. Jason Venditto for K9 Titan of the Hamden Police Department. (L-R) CPWDA Secretary, David Buck, Meriden Police Department; Sgt. Frank Reda, CPWDA Vice-President, Western Region, Norwalk Police Department; Officer Paul Hussey, Vice-President Eastern Region, Willimantic Police Department; Sgt. Jason Venditto, Hamden Police Department accepting plaque for K9 Titan; James Cortina, CPWDA Treasurer; and CPWDA President Daniel Lane, Waterford Police Department. Missing from photo, Officer Richard Boyle, Vice-President Central Region, Manchester Police Department. Meeting was held in West Hartford on 3/24/15.

CPWDA Board Members elected for 2015 L to R ; Sgt. Frank Reda, Vice President of Western Region, Norwalk Police Department; Officer Paul Hussey as Vice President Eastern Region, Willimantic Police Department; CPWDA President, Officer Daniel Lane, Waterford Police Department; Officer David Buck, CPWDA Secretary, Meriden Police Department and James Cortina, CPWDA Treasurer. Missing from photo is Officer Richard Boyle as Vice President central region from Manchester Police Department. Meeting was held in West Hartford on 12/15/14.

The CPWDA Board of Directors and members of CPWDA present Detective Rosario Savastra, with a plaque for outstanding years as President of CPWDA from 2011-2014. (L-R) Officer Mathew Lima, CPWDA Vice-President Western Region, Milford Police Department, James Cortina, CPWDA Treasurer, Officer Bobby Kempke, CPWDA Secretary, Ledyard Police Department, Detective Rosario Savastra, West Hartford Police Department, Officer Daniel Gagnon, CPWDA Vice-President Eastern Region, Ledyard Police Department and Officer Joseph Capodiferro, CPWDA Vice-President Central Region, Farmington Police Department. Meeting was held in West Hartford on 12/15/14.

Detective Rosario Savastra from West Hartford Police Department receives a plaque from CPWDA Board of Directors and membership for an outstanding job as President of the CPWDA from 2011 - 2014. Meeting was held in West Hartford on 12/15/14.

The CPWDA Board of Directors presented K9 memorial plaques to Officer Tamra French for K9 Chase and accepted by Officer David Buck of Meriden Police Department at far left. Officer Jeffrey Wagner for K9 Archi from the Newington Police Department in center of back row. Tomas Fern of Norwalk Police Department for K9 Pasa standing in back row, 3rd from right. Also the Daniel Wasson Memorial K9 plaque was presented to Officer Thomas Clements, 2nd from right, of the Stratford Police Department for outstanding work with his K9 partner Khan who were 2nd Runner Up for the prestigious award. Meeting was held in West Hartford on 12/15/14.

CPWDA President, Detective Rosario Savastra, West Hartford Police Department, 2ND FROM LEFT and CPWDA Treasurer James Cortina, 2ND from RIGHT presented K9 Memorial plaques to Officer Pete Osowiecki for K9 Phil, Suffield Police Department located FAR LEFT, Sgt. Erik Gutsfeld for K9 Rocky of the Rocky Hill Police Department located in CENTER and Officer Keith Baker for K9 Rudy, Rocky Hill Police Department located FAR RIGHT. Meeting was held in West Hartford on 9/23/14.

C.P.W.D.A. Board of Directors treated 2013 Wasson Winner, Officer Lars Vallin of the New Haven Police Department to dinner at the Cheese Cake Factory in West Hartford on 7/30/14.

Winner of the prestigious Daniel Wasson Memorial K9 Award for 2013, Officer Lars Vallin was treated out to dinner by CPWDA Board of Directors to the Cheese Cake Factory in West Hartford on 7/30/14. (L-R) Officer Lars Vallin, New Haven Police Department, CPWDA President Detective Rosario Savastra, West Hartford Police Department; CPWDA Vice-President of Central Division,Officer Joseph Capodiferro of the Farmington Police Department; CPWDA Vice President of Eastern Division Officer Dan Gagnon of Ledyard Police Department, CPWDA Treasurer James Cortina; and Vice President of Western Region, Officer Matt Lima of the Milford Police Department. Missing from photo are CPWDA Secretary Officer Bobby Kempke with Ledyard Police Department, 1st Runner-Up Officer John John from the Willimantic Police Department, 2nd Runner-Up Officer Steve Grossi with the East Hartford Police Department and also tied for 2nd Runner-Up Officer Thomas Clements from the Stratford Police Department.

(C) James Cortina, Board Director for the Connecticut Police Work Dog Association, presented K9 memorial plaques on behalf of the C.P.W.D.A. Board of Directors and it’s members to New London’s Police Department, to Officer John Michaud (L) for K9 Buck who passed away 6/24/14 and Sergeant Matt Galante (R) for K9 Ike who passed away on 12/13/13. Plaques were presented on 7/25/14.

Officer Craig Appleby from Hamden Police Department receives a K9 memorial plaque for his former K9, Hunter, from CPWDA President, Detective Rosario Savastra, West Hartford Police Department. Other CPWDA Board members present, Vice President of Western Region, Officer Matt Lima Milford Police Department; CPWDA Vice-President Central Region, Officer Joe Capodiferro,Vice-President Central Region, Farmington Police Department, CPWDA Vice-President Eastern Division Officer Dan Gagnon, Ledyard Police Department; CPWDA Secretary Officer Bobby Kempke Ledyard Police Department, and CPWDA Treasurer, James A. Cortina. Meeting was held in West Hartford on 4/22/14.

2nd FROM LEFT Officer James Antonelli from Danbury Police Department receives a K9 memorial plaque for K9 Britta. Presenting the plaque from FAR LEFT CPWDA Board Director and Vice President of Western Region, Officer Matt Lima of the Milford Police Department; Center CPWDA Director and Treasurer, James A. Cortina; 2nd FROM RIGHT CPWDA Director and Vice-President Central Region, Officer Joe Capodiferro of the Farmington Police Department, and FAR RIGHT CPWDA President, Detective Rosario Savastra of West Hartford Police Department. Missing from photo is Sgt. Michael Ravenelle of Ledyard Police Department who also received a K9 memorial plaque for K9 Kobi. Meeting was held at the West Hartford Police Department on 12/3/13.

LTO R CPWDA Board Director and Vice President of Western Region, Officer Matt Lima of the Milford Police Department who passed and received his trainer status; CPWDA Director and Treasurer, James A. Cortina; Master Trainer Bill Nott Jr. of the Ledyard Police Department; CPWDA Director and Vice-President Central Region, Officer Joe Capodiferro of the Farmington Police Department; CPWDA President Detective Rosario Savastra of West Hartford Police Department; Officer Todd Mona of the East Hartford Police Department who passed and received his trainer status; and Master Trainer, Officer Danny Lane of the Waterford Police Department. Test was given by Master Trainer Bill Nott Jr. and Master Trainer Danny Lane. Missing from photo is Officer Patrick Huntley of the Plainville Police Department who won a CPWDA $500.00 Raffle prize. Meeting was held at the West Hartford Police Department on 12/3/13.

Scot Haney from Channel 3 Eye Witness News interviews CPWDA President Detective Rosario Savastra, of the West Hartford Police Department on 11/14/13 in Wethersfield, CT.

Joe Capodiferro, CPWDA Vice - President of the Central Division, and K9 Drak from Farmington Police Department wait for Scot Haney from Channel 3 Eye Witness News to get suited up and play the bad guy on 11/14/13 in Wethersfield, CT .

Scot Haney from Channel 3 Eye Witness News interviews CPWDA Vice President of the Central Division, Officer Joe Capodiferro from Farmington Police Department about his K9 partner Drake who will be retiring shortly. 11/14/13

Members of the CPWDA that were on site for the interview and filming which will be aired in a week, From L, Sgt Eric Rocheleau of the West Hartford Police Department, Board Director, James Cortina, Scot Haney from Channel 3 Eye Witness News, CPWDA President Detective Rosario Savastra from the West Hartford Police Department and Officer Joe Capodiferro, Vice President of the Central Division, from Farmington Police Department. 11/14/13

Scot Haney from channel 3 Eye Witness News with Board Director James Cortina on 11/14/13.

Video of Scot Haney from Channel 3 Eye Witness News being taken down by K9 Drak of the Farmington Police Department.

CPWDA Decoy Techniques / Behavior Workshop class, instructed by Master Trainer Franco Angelini and hosted by Master Trainer ,Officer Dan Lane and Waterford Police Department September 30-October 3, 2013.

CPWDA Board Director Jim Cortina, 2nd from right, presented plaques to Master Trainer, Officer Danny Lane of the Waterford Police Department, far left and Instructor and Master Trainer, Franco Angelini far right and accompanied by CPWDA Board Director Officer Matthew Lima of Milford Police Department, second from left for Decoy Techniques / Behavior Workshop class held September 30-October 3, 2013 and hosted by the Waterford Police Department.

FROM LEFT TO RIGHT FRONT ROW: CPWDA Treasurer, James A. Cortina, Officer Felicia Figol from Newtown Police Department received a K9 memorial plaque for K9 Baro, Officer Brian Grant of Bloomfield Police Department received a K9 memorial plaque for K9 Maki, Officer Robert Arduini of Wethersfield Police Department received K9 memorial plaque for K9 Hunter, Officer, Officer Maurice Violette of New Britain Police Department accepting K9 memorial plaque for Officer Nick Egan and his K9 Will of the New Britain Police Department and CPWDA Vice-President of Western Division, Officer Matthew Lima of Milford Police Department. BACK ROW LEFT TO RIGHT: CPWDA Vice President Eastern Division, Officer Dan Gagnon, Ledyard Police Department; CPWDA Vice-President Central Region, Officer Joe Capodiferro, Farmington Police Department, and CPWDA President Rosario Savastra of West Hartford Police Department. Absent from photo are Officer Robert Joy of Stratford Police Department who received a K9 memorial plaque for K9 Roscoe, Officer Chris Moylan of Enfield Police Department who received a K9 memorial plaque for K9 Niko, Officer Marc Heinmiller of Westport Police Department who received a plaque for K9 Lola and CPWDA Secretary Officer Bobby Kempke of Ledyard Police Department. Meeting held in West Hartford on 9/24/13.

CPWDA Vice President of Eastern Division Officer Dan Gagnon of Ledyard Police Department presents the first gavel presentation to CPWDA President Rosario Savastra of the West Hartford Police Department which will be to be passed on to each CPWDA President in future years. Meeting held in West Hartford on 2/26/13. Gavel Set was designed by James Cortina, CPWDA Treasurer.

FROM LEFT TO RIGHT FRONT ROW. CPWDA Secretary Officer Bobby Kempke of Ledyard Police Department; Master Trainer Bill Nott received certificate for holding class for CPWDA members; CPWDA Treasurer, James A. Cortina; BACK ROW LEFT TO RIGHT. James Imbert from the Federal Protective Sevice / Homeland Security received certificate for Explosive Detection Training Certification at the FBI office in New Haven with his K9 Morgan; CPWDA President Rosario Savastra of West Hartford Police Department; Sgt. Bill Finucane also received certificate for Explosive Detection Training Certification at the FBI office in New Haven with his K9 McCarney and Jason Venditto who also received a certificate for Explosive Detection Training Certification at the FBI office in New Haven with his K9 Titan. Meeting held in West Hartford on 2/26/13.

SECOND FROM RIGHT.James Imbert from the Federal Protective Sevice / Homeland Security receives K9 memorial plaque for K9 Meghan. FROM LEFT CPWDA Secretary Officer Bobby Kempke of Ledyard Police Department; CPWDA Vice President of Eastern Division Officer Dan Gagnon of Ledyard Police Department; CPWDA President Rosario Savastra of West Hartford Police Department and CPWDA Treasurer, James A. Cortina. Meeting held in West Hartford on 2/26/13.

FROM LEFT TO RIGHT. CPWDA Vice-President of Western Region, Officer Dennis Bradshaw of Monroe Police Department; CPWDA Vice President of Eastern Division Officer Dan Gagnon of Ledyard Police Department; Master Trainer, Officer Danny Lane of Waterford Police Department; Former New London Police K9 Officer, Chad Stringer receiving a K9 Memorial plaque for K9 Kiva; CPWDA President Rosario Savastra of West Hartford Police Department; CPWDA Treasurer, James A. Cortina; CPWDA Secretary Officer Bobby Kempke of Ledyard Police Department. CPWDA Vice-President Central Region, Officer Joe Capodiferro of the Farmington Police Department. Meeting was held on 11/26/12, at West Harford American Legion.

FROM LEFT TO RIGHT. CPWDA Vice President of Eastern Division Officer Dan Gagnon of Ledyard Police Department; CPWDA Treasurer, James A. Cortina; Officer Brian Glasser of the New Milford Police Department receiving his K9 memorial plaque for K9 Onyx; CPWDA President Rosario Savastra of West Hartford Police Department, and CPWDA Secretary Officer Bobby Kempke of Ledyard Police Department. Missing from photo is CPWDA Vice-President Central Region, Officer Joe Capodiferro of the Farmington Police Department and CPWDA Vice-President of Western Region, Officer Dennis Bradshaw of Monroe Police Department. Meeting was held on 10/9/12, at West Harford Police Department.

FROM LEFT TO RIGHT. CPWDA Treasurer, James A. Cortina; CPWDA Vice President of Eastern Division Officer Dan Gagnon of Ledyard Police Department; Officer Felicia Figol of Newtown Police Department and Officer Dave Buck of Meriden Police Department accepting the plaque on behalf of CPWDA Vice-President of Western Region, Officer Dennis Bradshaw of Monroe Police Department; CPWDA President Rosario Savastra of West Hartford Police Department; Officer Tamra French of Easton Police Department also accepting the plaque for Dennis Bradshaw; and CPWDA Secretary Officer Bobby Kempke of Ledyard Police Department. Missing from photo also is K9 memorial plaque recipient Officer Matthew Riley of the Narragansett Police Department in Rhode Island for K9 Roki. Also missing from photo is CPWDA Vice-President Central Region, Officer Joe Capodiferro of the Farmington Police Department and CPWDA Vice-President of Western Region, Officer Dennis Bradshaw of Monroe Police Department. Meeting was held on 10/9/12, at West Harford Police Department.

A dinner was held on 8/13/12 for the recipients of the Daniel Wasson Memorial Award for 2011 which was held at the Cheesecake Factory in West Hartford, CT and attended by the CPWDA Board of Directors and their wives. L to R Officer Joseph Capodiffero, CPWDA Vice President Central Region, Farmington Police Department; Officer Bobby Kempke, CPWDA Secretary, Ledyard Police Department; 1^st Runner Up Daniel Wasson Memorial Award 2011 recipient Officer Jason Venditto, Hamden Police Department; Officer Dan Gagnon, CPWDA Vice President Eastern Region, Ledyard Police Department; Officer Rosario Savastra, CPWDA President, West Hartford Police Department; James Cortina, CPWDA Treasurer. Congratulations to all the winners!

Missing from photo is Officer Frank Reda, Daniel Wasson Memorial Award Winner, Norwalk Police Department; Officer John Fox, 2^nd Runner Up Daniel Wasson Memorial Award 2011 recipient, Bloomfield Police Department; Officer Dennis Bradshaw, CPWDA Vice-President Western Region, Monroe Police Department.

Congratulations to Manchester police officer Robert Johnson and K9 Dibbs on their 1st place overall win at the 21st K-9 Olympics held on July 21st on the UConn Depot Campus. Officer Johnson has been a member of the CPWDA since 2007.

CPWDA K9 Memorial Plaque Recipients: 1st ROW 2nd FROM L. Officer Eric Rocheleau for K9 Kora of West Hartford Police Department, 3rd FROM L Sgt. Arthur Fredericks for K9 Bodo of Bloomfield Police Department, 4th FROM L. Officer Jude Garden for K9 Oz of Amtrak Police. 1st Row far L. CPWDA Treasurer, James A. Cortina 1st ROW FAR R. CPWDA Vice-President Central Region, Officer Joe Capodiferro of Farmington Police Department. BACK ROW L TO R CPWDA Vice-President of Western Region, Officer Dennis Bradshaw of Monroe Police Department, CPWDA Secretary Officer Bobby Kempke of Ledyard Police Department, CPWDA Vice President of Eastern Division Officer Dan Gagnon of Ledyard Police Department, and CPWDA President Rosario Savastra of West Hartford Police Department. Missing from the photo is Officer John Harring for K9 Diesel of Billerica Police Department in Massachusetts. Meeting held on 2/28/12, West Harford, CT.

CPWDA members who became CPWDA Trainers and received their certificates FRONT ROW L TO R, CPWDA President, Rosario Savastra of West Hartford Police Department, Officer Paul Hussey of Willimantic Police Department, CPWDA Vice-President of Eastern Division, Officer Dan Gagnon of Ledyard Police Department, CPWDA Vice-President of Central Division, Joe Capodiferro. BACK ROW L TO R Officer Peter Osowiecki of Suffield Police Department, Officer Dwane Foisy who was testing the members to become trainers, Officer Seth O'Brien of Stamford Police Department and Sgt. Bill Finucane of NYS MTA who was also testing the applicants. Meeting held on 2/28/12, West Harford, CT.

C.P.W.D.A. President, Rosario Savastra of West Hartford Police Department and C.P.W.D.A. Treasurer, James A. Cortina present Waterford Police K9 Officer, Danny Lane, with a K9 memorial plaque in memory of his K9 partner Czar. Meeting was held on 1/31/12 at Buffalo Wild Wings in Waterford.

CPWDA Board of Directors present a special plaque on behalf of CPWDA members to CPWDA Treasurer James Cortina for his many years of dedicated service to CPWDA and for being one of three charter member's of the CPWDA when it was formed in 1991. Board of Directors L to R Officer Dan Gagnon, Vice President of CPWDA Eastern Division, Ledyard Police Department, CPWDA President Rosario Savastra, West Hartford Police Department; plaque recipient James Cortina , Officer Bobby Kempke, CPWDA Secretary, Ledyard Police Department; Officer Joseph Capodiffero, CPWDA Vice President Central Region, Farmington Police Department; Missing from photo; Officer Dennis Bradshaw, CPWDA Vice-President Western Region, Monroe Police Department. Meeting held on 9/20/11, West Harford, CT.

CPWDA Board of Directors present a special plaque on behalf of CPWDA members to Master Trainer, Lt. William Scribner of New Milford Police Department for his many years of dedicated service to CPWDA and for being one of three charter member's of the CPWDA when it was formed in 1991. Presentation of plaque was made by Board of Directors L to R CPWDA Treasurer James Cortina, CPWDA President Rosario Savastra, West Hartford Police Department; Plaque recipient, Lt. William Scribner; Officer Dan Gagnon, Vice President of CPWDA Eastern Division, Ledyard Police Department. Missing from photo; Officer Bobby Kempke, CPWDA Secretary, Ledyard Police Department; Officer Joseph Capodiffero, CPWDA Vice President Central Region, Farmington Police Department; Officer Dennis Bradshaw, CPWDA Vice-President Western Region, Monroe Police Department. Meeting held on 9/20/11, West Harford, CT.

CPWDA K9 Memorial Plaque Recipient: Center. Officer Chris Holt for K9 Karo, Groton Town Police Department. CPWDA Board of Directors L TO R. CPWDA Treasurer James Cortina, Officer Rosario Savastra, CPWDA President, West Hartford Police Department; Officer Dan Gagnon, Vice President of CPWDA Eastern Division, Ledyard Police Department, Officer Bobby Kempke, CPWDA Secretary, Ledyard Police Department. Missing from photo: Officer Joseph Capodiffero, CPWDA Vice President Central Region, Farmington Police Department; Officer Dennis Bradshaw, CPWDA Vice-President Western Region, Monroe Police Department. Meeting held on 9/20/11, West Harford, CT.

Congratulations to both Officer Richard Boyle and Robert Johnson of the Manchester Police Department K-9 unit. Both officers successfully competed in the 2011 Police and Fire World Games, held Aug. 29 through Sept. 1 at Fort Totten in New York City. Officer Richard Boyle and his police service dog, Marco, and Officer Robert Johnson and his K-9 partner, Dibbs, both placed well in the competitions. Boyle and Marco earned first place in building searches, second place in vehicle searches and third place in overall narcotics. Johnson and Dibbs earned first place with box searches and third place in overall patrol. Officer Boyle has been a CPWDA member since 2004 and Officer Johnson has been a member since 2007. Their participation in the event was sponsored by the Connecticut Police Work Dog Association and the Manchester Police Department.

A dinner was held on 8/23/11 for the recipients of the Daniel Wasson Memorial Award for the years 2009 & 2010 which was held at the Cheesecake Factory in West Hartford, CT and attended by the CPWDA Board of Directors and their wives. L to R Officer Joseph Capodiffero, 2009 2^nd Runner Up and CPWDA Vice President Central Region, Farmington Police Department; Officer Dennis Bradshaw, CPWDA Vice-President Western Region, Monroe Police Department; Officer Rosario Savastra, CPWDA President, West Hartford Police Department; Officer Dan Gagnon, Daniel Wasson Memorial Award 2010 1^st Runner Up and CPWDA Vice President Eastern Region, Ledyard Police Department; Officer Todd Mona, 2009 Wasson Memorial Award Winner, East Hartford Police Department, James Cortina, CPWDA Treasurer. Missing from photo is Officer Frank Reda, Daniel Wasson Memorial Award Winner for 2010, Norwalk Police Department; Officer Jason Venditto, Daniel Wasson Memorial Award 2010 2^ND Runner Up, Hamden Police Department; Officer Tamra French, Daniel Wasson Memorial Award 2009 1st Runner Up, Easton Police Department; Officer Bobby Kempke, CPWDA Secretary, Ledyard Police Department. Congratulations to all the winners!

CPWDA K9 Memorial Plaque Recipients: Front Row, second from left, William Turley, Retired Detective, East Hartford Police Department (K-9 Miranda); and third from left, Humberto Morales, formerly with New London Police Department (K-9 Niko) currently Detective, Connecticut State Police. The CPWDA Board of Directors, Front Row left to right: James A. Cortina, CPWDA Treasurer; 4th from left, Officer Bobby Kempke, CPWDA Secretary, Ledyard Police Department; 5th from left, Officer Joseph Capodiferro, Vice-President of CPWDA Central Division, Farmington Police Department. Back Row left to right: Officer Dennis Bradshaw, Vice President of CPWDA Western Division, Monroe Police Department; CPWDA President Rosiaro Savastra, West Hartford Police Department; and Officer Dan Gagnon, Vice President of CPWDA Eastern Division, Ledyard Police Department. Absent from picture, who also received a plaque, is Lieutenant Frank McDermott, Hamden Police Department (K-9 Hero). Meeting held on May 16, 2011, West Hartford, CT .

Waterford Police Department hosted a First Aid Seminar in Waterford, CT. that was instructed by nationally known Paul McNamara, DVM. Front Row L TO R. James Cortina, CPWDA Treasurer; Officer Dan Gagnon, CPWDA Vice-President, Ledyard Police Department. Back Row L TO R. Officer Dan Lane, Waterford Police Department who arranged the First Aid Seminar; Instructor Paul McNamara, DVM; Officer Rosario Savastra, CPWDA President, West Hartford Police Department; and Officer Bobby Kempke, CPWDA Secretary, Ledyard Police Department. CPWDA Directors presented a plaque to Paul McNamara DVM, in Waterford, CT on May 15, 2011.

CPWDA winners of a free two-year subscription to Police K9 Magazine, compliments of Police K9 Magazine were L TO R. Officer Danny Lane, Waterford Police Department, Officer Dennis Bradshaw, Monroe Police Department and Officer Rob Johnson of Manchester Police Department. Congratulations to the lucky winners and thank you to Police K9 Magazine for your generous contribution of magazines! ( December 2010 Meeting )

CPWDA K9 Memorial Plaque Recipients: Front Row L TO R. Officer Peter Parinzino for K9 Niko, Portland Police Department, Detective Sergeant Thomas Calvello for K9 Berry, Bristol Police Department, Officer Kenneth Mellor for K9 Harley, East Lyme Police Department, and Officer John Mahon for K9 Gaston, Southington Police Department. Back Row L TO R. Members of the Board of Directors: CPWDA Treasurer James Cortina, CPWDA President William Nott Jr. of Ledyard Police Department, and CPWDA Secretary Rosario Savastra of West Hartford Police Department. (December 2010 meeting)

CPWDA Trainer Certification Recipients: First Row L TO R. Officer Dennis Bradshaw, Monroe Police Department, Officer Jay Venditto, Hamden Police Department, Officer Todd Lynch, New London Police Department, Sgt. James Antonelli, Danbury Police Department and Officer Eric Rocheleau of West Hartford Police Department. Second Row L to R Inspector James Imbert, Federal Protective Service, Sgt. Bill Finucane, MTA Police Department, Officer Robert Johnson, Manchester Police Department, Officer Frank Reda, Norwalk Police Department and Officer John Mahon of Southington Police Department. Missing from photo - Lt. Frank McDermott, Hamden Police Department and Officer Richard Boyle of Manchester Police Department. ( February 2010 meeting )

Officer Dan Gagnon, Ledyard Police Department and Officer Tom Clements of Stratford Police Department receive their memorial plaques for their deceased partners K9 "Jack and K9 "Zak". (Left to Right ) James Cortina, CPWDA Treasurer, Officer Dan Gagnon, CPWDA President William Nott Jr. of Ledyard Police Department, Officer Tom Clements of Stratford Police Department and CPWDA Secretary Rosario Savastra of West Hartford Police Department.( February 2010 meeting )

Past CPWDA President, Officer Eric Rocheleau, of West Hartford Police Department, receives his plaque from CPWDA Executive Board Members. ( L to R ) James Cortina, CPWDA Treasurer, Current CPWDA President, Willian Nott Jr., Ledyard Police Department, and CPWDA Secretary Rosario Savastra of West Hartford Police Department. Officer Roceleau served as CPWDA President 2008 and 2009. ( February 2010 meeting )

The Connecticut Police Work Dog Association congratulates Officer Robert Johnson & K-9 Dibbs from Manchester Police Department for coming in 1st place at the 2009 Connecticut Police K-9 Olympics held at Stores, Connecticut on July 25, 2009 where over 30 K-9 units competed.

Officer Matthew Lima of Milford Police Department and K-9 Judge received the Wasson Award 1st runner-up plaque, certificate and Wasson bar from the Connecticut Police Work Dog Association Board of Directors at an awards meeting. The Daniel Wasson Memorial Canine Award is named after a Milford K9 police officer who was killed in the line of duty. Photo from left to right: CPWDA President, Officer William Nott Jr., Officer Matthew Lima of Milford Police Department, CPWDA Secretary, Officer Rosario Savastra and CPWDA Treasurer, James A. Cortina. ( 2009 meeting )

Officer Robert Johnson and his K-9 Dibbs from Manchester Police Department received a Connecticut Police Work Dog Association certificate for winning the Connecticut Police Canine Olympics which was held in Storrs Connecticut at the U-Conn campus on July 25, 2009. Over 30 K-9 teams competed with Officer Johnson being the states top K-9 team winning the event. Photo from left to right: CPWDA President, Officer William Nott Jr., Officer Mathew Lima of Milford Police Department, CPWDA Secretary, Officer Rosario Savastra and CPWDA Treasurer, James A. Cortina. ( 2009 meeting )