Pictured, from left, Cst. Riley Hughson and K-9 Mac; Cst. Steve Burgess and K-9 Jago
The Fredericton Police Force proudly welcomes its new K-9 members, Mac and Jago, with handlers Constable Riley Hughson and Constable Steve Burgess, as part of the formal establishment of its Police Dog Services (PDS) program. This important enhancement significantly strengthens the Force’s operational capabilities by introducing highly trained police service dogs to assist in a variety of specialized law enforcement functions.
Constable Steve Burgess brings a decade of experience to the role, having served eight years on patrol and two years in the auxiliary unit with the Fredericton Police Force. Constable Riley Hughson has eight years of experience, including specialized training in street and drug crimes. Both officers began the intensive 85-day basic handlers’ course through the Department of Justice and Public Safety with their K-9 partners, who arrived in early July. Upon successful completion, the Police Service Dog teams are expected to be fully operational and ready for service in late 2025.
Police Service Dogs (PSD) are an invaluable asset to a police force, providing critical roles such as tracking suspects and missing persons, supporting the apprehension of suspects, searching for weapons and contraband, and protecting officers and civilians. They are key resources in policing, enhancing officer safety, canvassing areas to find intelligence, and recovering evidence.
These dogs undergo extensive training to develop strong obedience, physical agility, and specialized detection capabilities, allowing handlers to deploy them safely and effectively in varied policing situations.
The Fredericton Police Force warmly welcomes Jago and Mac to the Force and looks forward to them successfully completing their training and serving the community as a vital addition to the Force’s commitment to safety and effective policing, and becoming trusted partners in keeping Fredericton a safe, welcoming community for all.
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Media contact:
Sonya Gilks
Public Information Officer
Fredericton Police Force
Fpf.media@fredericton.ca
506-460-2777