Community rallies for new K-9 unit

All About Smokey

Smokey is the K-9 unit that will be introduced to the Newton Police Department and community later this spring. Here’s what we know about him so far.

How he got his name: Smokey was named at the ARL.

Age: Approximately 1 year old

Expected full-grown size: 50 pounds

Type of breed: Border Collie mix

His K-9 officer/handler: Officer Zach Walker

Where he's being trained: Pleasant Hill at Midwest K-9

Favorite toy: He loves his tennis ball.

What he'll be able to do: Assist in narcotics-related investigations and trail human scent including investigations that help find missing children, dementia or Alzheimer's patients and suspects who run from police.

Expected term of service: Six to eight years

How you can support him: Purchase tickets to the May 7 Newton Night at the Iowa Barnstormers game from Montana Mike's, or donate funds directly to the Newton Police Department.