Canine Program Resurrected At South Windsor Police Department

SOUTH WINDSOR, CT — After years of inactivity, a canine division is being resurrected at the South Windsor Police Department, as Officer Zachary Cosenza and his German shepherd partner Mason began a 14-week Connecticut State Police canine training program Monday.

Mason, who is 13 months old, and Cosenza will be trained as a police patrol canine team, learning skills such as obedience, evidence recovery, building searches and locating lost or missing persons.

The canine program has been reactivated a generous donation from the Hartford-Evergreen Masonic Lodge #88, based in South Windsor. The Free Masons philanthropic efforts have benefited the South Windsor Police Department on multiple occasions over the years, including development of a mountain bike unit and early adoption of police body-worn cameras.

Chief Kristian Lindstrom said, "I am excited to add this resource to our department, as it will allow us to better serve the community. As the town continues to grow, it is incumbent upon us as a department to stay modern and make available a pool of resources that will maximize our service to the town. The perennial support of the Hartford-Evergreen Masonic Lodge is most appreciated, and has played a significant role in our ability to serve South Windsor. Money from this donation will be used to assist with the initial and ongoing costs of this important program."

To register for free South Windsor breaking news alerts and more, click here.