Bridgeport, Conn. (September 14, 2015) — Today, Bridgeport Police Chief Joseph Gaudett Jr. announced the beginning of K-9 training for two Bridgeport police officers.  Police Officers Marie Cetti and John Pachera began their first day of training at the Connecticut State Police Canine Unit in Meriden, Conn.  Each officer is paired with a dog, trained as a team, and then will enter the field together. Officer Cetti is paired with K-9 Nemesis, and Officer Pachera is paired with K-9 Caleb.

“Police dogs perform an invaluable service by helping to detect drugs, locate suspects or missing persons, and assist in arrests,” said Police Chief Gaudett. “I am excited for Officer Cetti and Officer Pachera to begin this training and to eventually join the storied history of specialized units in the Bridgeport Police Department. Both officers have demonstrated incredible professionalism, work ethic, and dedication to earn this appointment. These efforts go a long way toward keeping kids and families safe in Bridgeport.”

Once the training is complete, Officer Cetti will make history as the first female K-9 officer. “We are particularly proud that the K-9 unit will be getting the first female officer in its history,” said Chief Gaudett. The training includes a fifteen week course in handler protection, evidence recovery, building searches, obedience, and classroom education. K-9 training is considered one of the most rigorous and intense training an officer can take.

(Bridgeport Police Press Release)