Krissy Hughes and Dana Parsons
Orbit Media Reporters
New Concord welcomed its first K-9 police officer Friday, Nov. 22.
Norco was sworn into the New Concord Police Department by Mayor Brett Essex. Norco received an official badge to be worn on his collar.
New Concord Police Officer Jeff Traub is working with Norco, New Concord’s K-9 officer. Norco completed training at Merry K9 in Zanesville.
Norco’s first unofficial day began Nov. 19 as Officer Jeff Traub and Norco conducted narcotic runs throughout New Concord.
Earlier in the month, Norco completed all his training with Merry K-9 Services located in Zanesville. He passed his requirements along with his state training. He has been living with Officer Traub and his family for a few weeks.
Officer Traub has continued to work with Norco on his narcotics detection skills.
“I have all the more respect for the training the dogs go through,” said Traub.
New Concord Police Chief Mindy Peck has been wanting a K-9 in New Concord since she started on the department.
“This is something I’ve seen a need for and I thought, ‘what’s the best way to keep the drugs out of the village?’ It’s a drug K-9. So, that’s what I pushed for. I’m thrilled. It’s a big accomplishment for the village,” said Peck.
Norco received his police badge from the Village of New Concord Nov. 22. He will be a single-purpose officer, specializing in narcotics detection, excluding marijuana.
Village Administrator Charlotte Colley said Norco isn’t a pet. He is an officer and that’s how he was trained. He gets nervous around big crowds, but is friendly. The NCPD is planning on hosting events for the community to meet Norco.
Donations can still be made to the village K-9 fund for training, transportation, and veterinary needs. Donations can be made at New Concord Village Hall or the Muskingum County Community Foundation in Zanesville.
Learn more about New Concord’s K-9 officer program from the February 2019 Town Hall meeting.
