Jax and Patrolman Greg Zytko are nearly complete with training and ready to get to work in Warren County.
Mansfield Township will soon have some new help sniffing out crime.
After about two months of training -- with costs covered by $12,000 in community donations -- the township's new K-9 unit has one final test May 4 before officially completing the academy, said Chief Michael Reilly.
The team of Patrolman Greg Zytko and Jax, a Dutch shepherd/Belgian Malinois mix, already has certifications for patrol and narcotics work, he said.
"Graduating the K-9 academy is a remarkable accomplishment and I am truly proud of both of them," Reilly said Monday. "Our officers are always striving to better serve our community and Jax is a welcome addition to our team."
Township police in December launched fundraisers to cover K-9 training and startup costs. Jax was purchased from Progressive K-9 Academy in Walnutport, where the unit trained.
The chief said Zytko and Jax will take some well-deserved vacation after graduation, though they will be available throughout the county if needed. They will officially be back on patrol May 25.
Steve Novak may be reached at snovak@lehighvalleylive.com. Follow him on Twitter @type2supernovak. Find lehighvalleylive.com on Facebook.