Patrolman Mark Tsoukalas and his trusted partner Barek

Over a year ago the Billerica Police Department instituted a K9 unit to provide its citizens with an even higher level of community service.

The K9 is utilized for:

Patrolman John Harring with Annabell

Meet Annabell, the Billerica Police Departments newest member! Annabell is a Bloodhound that was donated by 832's Deputy Dogs of Adel, Georgia. Please visit their site and learn about the wonderful service they provide to law enforcement agencies all over the country.

Annabell is considered a "man trailing dog". She is not aggressive in any way other than trailing. The value of the dog if purchased from a breeder would have been between $2000 and $5000. Last week Officer Mark Tsoukalas and Officer John Harring (pictured) traveled to Georgia to pick her up and train with her. She is only 10 months old and will not be fully mature until two years old. At this time she is fully operational and with further training she will be capable of recovering drowning victims.

Unlike Barak, our full-time K9, Annabell will be utilized on an as needed basis. When not performing official duties she'll be taking up family responsibilities with Officer Harring.