The Bushkill Township Police Department K9 Unit was established in 2007 with the generous support of the community and local business partners. In 2008, Officer Josh Miller was partnered with K-9 Havoc, a German Shepherd. The pair graduated from Castle’s K9 Training Center with certifications in both drug detection and patrol, making Havoc a dual-purpose law enforcement dog. Throughout his career, K-9 Havoc played a vital role in police operations, assisting in the detection of illegal drugs, tracking missing persons, locating hidden suspects, and uncovering discarded evidence. He served alongside Officer Miller until his retirement in 2016. After retiring, Havoc continued to live with Officer Miller, enjoying a well-earned rest after nearly a decade of dedicated service until his passing January 5, 2019.

Following the retirement of K-9 Havoc, Officer Josh Miller was partnered with K-9 Dark, a Belgian Malinois and German Shepherd mix. The duo began their partnership in 2016 and served together until Dark’s retirement in 2025. Like his predecessor, K-9 Dark graduated from Castle’s K9 Training Center with certifications in both drug detection and patrol, making him a highly skilled dual-purpose law enforcement dog. Over the course of his nearly nine-year career, Dark was deployed daily, assisting in narcotics detection, tracking missing persons, locating hidden suspects, and recovering discarded evidence. Beyond his duties, K-9 Dark served as a community ambassador, always eager to greet residents while out on patrol. His presence brought reassurance, professionalism, and a friendly face to the community he served. In 2025, K-9 Dark officially retired from active duty. He now enjoys a well-earned retirement at home with Officer Miller, where he continues to be a loyal companion.

Thank you, K-9 Dark, for your years of dedicated service and unwavering commitment to keeping the community safe.

In preparation for Dark’s retirement, Officer Miller announced he would not be continuing as a K-9 handler. As a result, the department selected Officer Casey Snyder as the next handler in the K-9 Unit. Officer Snyder is now partnered with K-9 Sniper, a Belgian Malinois imported from Holland. The pair graduated from Iron Rose K9 Training Center in June 2025 with dual certifications in drug detection and patrol. Sniper resides with Officer Snyder and is ready to respond to incidents at a moment’s notice.

Sniper’s duties include daily patrols, drug detection, tracking missing persons, locating suspects, and recovering discarded evidence. In addition to these responsibilities, Sniper is trained to protect officers and apprehend dangerous individuals when necessary.

Beyond his patrol work, Sniper makes regular appearances at community events where he helps promote public safety and positive relationships with residents. While Sniper is friendly and well-tempered, the department reminds everyone to ask Officer Snyder for permission before approaching or petting him.

The Bushkill Township Police Department K-9 Unit remains committed to supporting law enforcement operations and engaging the community through drug prevention, search and rescue support, and outreach initiatives.

Support the BTPD K-9 Unit

The Bushkill Township Police Department K-9 Unit is currently accepting donations to help support the ongoing needs of our canine program. Your generous contributions directly assist with essential items and services, including:

• A fully equipped K-9 vehicle, including a secure K-9 cage, remote door opener, heat alarm system, and emergency lights and sirens
• Leashes, tracking leads, and harnesses
• Specialized training equipment
• Tuition for K-9 training schools and certifications
• Veterinarian Well Visit’s and treatment
• A kennel for the handler’s home
• Plenty of food and treats to keep our K-9 healthy and motivated

How to Donate:
Cash or Checks are acceptable

Make payable to:

Bushkill Township Police Department – Attn: K9 Initiative
Mail or drop off at:
1114 Bushkill Center Road
Nazareth, PA 18064

We are incredibly grateful for the continued support from our community. Your donations help us maintain a highly trained, well-equipped K-9 Unit that serves and protects Bushkill Township every day.