In early 1997, the implementation of a K-9 Unit was studied and researched. Numerous businesses and individuals within the community donated funds, equipment, or services and in August 1997, Wilkes-Barre Township's first K-9 became a reality.

K-9 Draco, a German Shepherd, was purchased and began training with Sgt. Tom Wardle, who was selected as the Department's K-9 handler. Draco was trained in patrol functions such as handler protection, apprehension, building and open area searches. Training was provided by Chief Mark Donnelly of the VA Police Department. Unfortunately, Draco was diagnosed with a medical condition that forced him into an early retirement. Draco will always be remembered as Wilkes-Barre Township's first K-9 and for the numerous calls and demonstrations that he participated in, and will be  missed by the community.

                           K-9 Draco

Sgt. Wardle was partnered with "Rolf", a  German Shepherd from the Czech Republic, from 1999 to 2003. Rolf was trained in many areas including; narcotics detection, handler protection, building and open area searches, apprehension, tracking, and agility. Rolf received his initial patrol training in Germany. He also attended a 14 week course at the Philadelphia Police K-9 Academy and was trained in narcotics detection by Hank Macuch. Rolf was purchased by Sgt. Wardle from an another area police department and had several years of patrol experience. Sgt. Wardle and K-9 Rolf trained on a regular basis and certified through several K-9 associations throughout the year.

Sadly, K-9 Rolf passed away on November 12, 2003 at the age of ten and is now patrolling the safer streets of K-9 heaven. He is sadly missed by Sgt. Wardle, his family, the department and community.

Sgt. Wardle and K-9 Rolf

Sgt. Wardle was partnered with K-9 "Blitz", an American bred German Shepherd from 2003 to 2005.

Currently, the department's K-9 Unit consists of Patrolman Mark Phillips and K-9 "Sisko", having finished training in January, 2006. Sisko is a German Shepherd imported from the Czech Republic, and is currently assigned to the Patrol Division as both a patrol and explosives detection dog. He is also trained in the areas of obedience, tracking, area and building searches, handler protection, apprehension and crowd control. Sisko and his handler are currently assigned to the Regional Counter - Terrorism Task Force of the Pennsylvania Homeland Security as an explosive detection K-9 Team. Sisko received basic patrol and explosive training at the K-9 Center in Oxford PA. Patrolman Phillips and Sisko continue to train on a regular basis with trainer Paul Price of the K9 Korner, located on Wilkes-Barre Twp. Blvd., in the Township, and Randy Kromer of Kromerhaus Kennels, Bethlehem, PA.  

Ptlm. Phillips and K-9 Sisko

The K-9 Unit has been a proven deterrent to criminal activity, as well as a positive community relations tool. The K-9 Unit also assists neighboring police departments who require the need of a K-9, and provides many public demonstrations.