The Whitehall Township Bureau of Police K-9 Unit has been in service for over a decade. The functions of the Whitehall K-9 officer include patrol work and having specialized training in the detection of narcotics and explosives. At times our K-9 Units assist other agencies in investigations because of their specialized services.

K-9's and their handlers not only perform patrol duties and train together but also live together to gain each others trust. The K-9 Unit trains throughout the year and is certified annually to perform their duties.

The K-9 unit has an active community presence putting on demonstrations for the Whitehall-Coplay School District, Community Days at the Lehigh Valley Mall, and many more appearances in the Lehigh Valley.

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Officer Richard H. Garner with K-9 Vitus

Officer Rich Garner has been a Township Police officer since July 1991, and has been a K-9 handler since May of 1996. Officer Garner's current partner, K-9 Vitus, joined the force in October of 2005. Vitus, born in Germany, is a German shepherd and has been training with Officer Garner in patrol duties as well as narcotics detection.

Officer Garner enjoys camping, football (especially the Pittsburg Steelers), wrestling, weightlifting and coaching. When off duty, Vitus and Officer Garner live together and are the best of friends.

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Officer Jeffery Coleman with K-9 Ylan

Officer Jeff Coleman became a Police officer in Whitehall Township in 1997. He became a K-9 handler in March of 2003 and his current partner is K-9 Ylan. Ylan is a Belgian Malinois from Holland. Ylan has trained with Officer Coleman in patrol duties and explosive detection.

When off duty, Officer Coleman enjoys riding his motorcycle, weight training, football, and is a faithful fan of the Phillies. Officer Coleman enjoys his time off and time spent with Ylan.