Norwich — A police drug-detecting dog team graduated Thursday from the 153 Narcotic Detector Canine Class in Meriden.

Officer Avery Marsh and his canine partner Luther started classes April 9. Marsh and Luther have been trained to search for illegal narcotics on people or in places such as in vehicles, room interiors, open areas, confined spaces and mass transit facilities.

Chief Louis Fusaro said the new team will fill in the void created with the retirement of drug-detection canine Tony.

“I’m pleased and proud of Officer Marsh and K-9 Luther,” Fusaro said in a statement. “They took on this intensive training program like the professionals they are, and have successfully completed it.”