POLICE CANINE UNIT
The Lower Moreland Township Police Department (LMPD) K9 Unit, which was established in 2021, is dedicated to assisting the department and the community in a variety of ways, including drug prevention, enhanced capabilities in search-and-rescue situations, and community relations.
The LMPD K9 Unit currently has two police dogs, a German Shepherd named Kermit, and Kermit's half-brother, Thor. LMPD Officer Sierra Volkert, Kermit’s handler, has been paired with him since he was a puppy. Kermit lives with Officer Volkert and can be called to an incident in a moment’s notice when needed. LMPD Officer Hashemi-Sohi, Thor's handler, has been paired with Thor since he was a puppy as well. Thor also lives with Officer Hashemi-Sohi.
Ofc. Volkert and Kermit graduated the University of Pennsylvania Narcotics Detection School in March 2021 and K9 Patrol School in November 2021. His training makes him a dual-purpose (narcotics and patrol) law enforcement dog. His duties include being able to go out on daily patrol to sniff out narcotics or track missing persons, locate hidden suspects, and uncover discarded evidence. Kermit is also trained to protect police officers and apprehend criminals when necessary.
Ofc. Hashemi-Sohi and Thor graduated K9 Patrol School in November 2022 and will be attending scent school in the near future. Just like Kermit, this training will make Thor a dual-purpose (narcotics and patrol) law enforcement dog.
In addition to their patrol duties, Kermit & Thor will also make regular appearances at community events, providing security and interacting with Lower Moreland Township residents, supporting the department’s key objective of developing strong relationships with the community it serves.
As with any police dog, Kermit & Thor are friendly and well-tempered, but residents are asked to be sure to ask the officer before approaching or petting if you see them around town.
You can see photos of Kermit & Thor out in the community and stay up to date with their latest activity by following their own Facebook page and Instagram account:
Instagram - Kermit's
Instagram - Thor
Donations:
The LMPD K9 Unit is also accepting donations. Donations will cover the costs of items such as:
- A Vehicle - outfitted with the necessary equipment like a proper K9 cage, remote door opener, heat alarm, and of course lights and sirens!
- Leashes, tracking leads, and harnesses
- Training equipment
- Schools and Certifications
- A kennel for home
- And of course plenty of food and treats!
Cash or checks may be made out to Lower Moreland Township Police Attn: K9 Initiative and mailed or dropped off to our address: 640 Red Lion Road Huntingdon Valley, PA 19006. You may now make online donations here.
We thank everyone for their ongoing support!
