The Tinton Falls Police Department is mourning the loss of retired K9 Hunter, a decorated police dog who served the borough for a decade and was recognized as a top competitor in regional police canine events.
The Tinton Falls Police Department announced the passing of retired K9 Hunter, a longtime police canine who spent 10 years serving residents and assisting law enforcement operations throughout Monmouth County. Hunter was 14 years old.
Key Points
• Retired K9 Hunter served with the Tinton Falls Police Department from 2012 to 2022
• The patrol and narcotics detection dog was named “Top Dog” in 2016 by the United States Police Canine Association
• Hunter participated in numerous narcotics investigations, missing person searches, and community demonstrations
K9 Hunter joined the department in 2012 after graduating from the Tinton Falls K9 Academy, where he earned certifications in patrol and narcotics detection work.
During his career, Hunter assisted officers with countless investigations and searches throughout Monmouth County. The department credited him with numerous narcotics finds and successful missing person searches during his years of service.
Award-winning police canine
From 2014 through 2019, Hunter competed in United States Police Canine Association Region 6 and Region 15 competitions.
According to the department, Hunter earned multiple top-three finishes during those events and was recognized as the association’s “Top Dog” in 2016.
His accomplishments made him one of the department’s most recognizable and accomplished K9 officers.
Community ambassador
Beyond his law enforcement duties, Hunter regularly participated in demonstrations at schools, community events, and local organizations throughout the region.
The department said his appearances helped strengthen relationships between law enforcement and the community while educating residents about the role police canines play in public safety.
In announcing Hunter’s passing, Tinton Falls police asked the community to keep his longtime handler and partner, Detective James Sapia, in their thoughts.
“It is with profound sadness that the Tinton Falls Police Department announces the passing of retired K9 officer Hunter,” the department said in a statement.