Norwich narcotic K-9 retires

Norwich — After nearly eight years working as a narcotic detention dog, Tony, a yellow Labrador, retired from the Norwich Police Department Tuesday.

Tony and his handler, Sgt. James Tetreault were instrumental in getting rid of drugs in the city, said Police Chief Louis J. Fusaro.

Tony has been a working canine for the Norwich Police Department since 2004 and was the first ever dedicated narcotic detector canine for the department. Tony was specifically trained to detect the odor of several narcotics, including cocaine, crack cocaine, heroin, marijuana, ecstasy and illegal steroids.

More than 7 kilograms of cocaine and crack cocaine, several thousand bags of heroin, marijuana and ecstasy have all been seized with the help of Tony. Also more than $250,000 in cash along with a dozen vehicles were seized.

In his off time, Tony performed demonstrations for the past seven years at the DARE Red Ribbon Rally, for the board of education, Youth Police Academy, Crime Watch Block Party and the North Stonington Fair.

Tony will be living with the Tetreault family.

"Tony should enjoy his retirement," Fusaro said. "He has done excellent work for the department."