New Harbor Police Officers and K-9 Sworn in

Wednesday, 06 August 2008

The San Diego Harbor Police Department has three newly sworn officers to add to its team that provides law enforcement, marine fire-fighting services, airport services, public safety and Homeland Security throughout the tidelands and San Diego Bay.

Officers Ken Helman, Jose Torres and Pedro Arce were sworn in with their wives by their sides at a ceremony on August 6, 2008. Chief Kirk Sanfilippo performed the honors in front of the officers' family, friends and co-workers.

In addition to the three new officers, the Harbor Police has a new TSA-certified explosive detection dog on its team. Ben, a three-year-old Dutch Shepherd, was sworn in for duty with his handler, Harbor Police Corporal Del MacGray, by his side. Ben's official mission with the TSA begins on August 18. He graduated from the agency's canine explosive training in March of this year.

Two former members of the K-9 unit were presented with retirement certificates and plaques at the ceremony. Yurrie, a Belgian Malinois and TSA certified explosives detection dog retired after seven years of service with the Harbor Police. Yurrie resides with his handler, Harbor Police Sgt. Dominic Boccia and his family.

Another Belgian Malinois, Kazan, was presented with a special retirement certificate. Kazan, was also a TSA certified explosives detection dog and had served with the Harbor Police from May 2004 until August 2007. Kazan had to retire early because of injuries he suffered in an accident in 2007. Kazan lives with Officer Doug Welker and his family.

 

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