The Ashland Police Department is proud to announce the reinstatement of its K9 program with the return of K9 Jack, a six-year-old Black Labrador Retriever, and his handler, Officer Emanuele Toscano.

K9 Jack, originally rescued from a shelter in Wisconsin, has built an impressive record of service. He previously served alongside Officer Toscano at the Norfolk County Sheriff’s Office, where the team worked together for approximately three and a half years. During that time, they assisted numerous police agencies in both narcotics detection and search-and-rescue operations.  When Officer Toscano joined APD, we were fortunate enough that the Norfolk County Sheriff’s allowed Jack to join APD, fully trained, saving Ashland thousands of dollars .

K9 Jack is certified in passive narcotics detection and friendly-find search and rescue, including locating missing children, elderly individuals, and other vulnerable persons. Together, the team has helped remove significant quantities of narcotics from communities and has played a vital role in locating individuals in need of assistance.

Chief Rossi and the Ashland Police Department recognize the tremendous value a well-trained K9 team brings to public safety. The reinstatement of the K9 unit strengthens the department’s ability to respond quickly and effectively to critical incidents within Ashland. It also enhances the town’s contribution to mutual aid efforts, supporting surrounding departments and regional partners such as METRO-LEC.

“The addition of K9 Jack and Officer Toscano significantly enhances our capabilities,” said Chief Rossi. “Their experience, professionalism, and proven success make them an invaluable asset to the residents of Ashland and to our law enforcement partners throughout the region.”

The Ashland Police Department looks forward to the positive impact this team will continue to have on public safety, community outreach, and regional collaboration.

Also, Jack is just really cute and loveable, and we’re so excited to have him as part of the APD family.