Stonington — Jack, a 4-year-old German shepherd, sniffed out a man who was allegedly involved in a domestic violence incident Sunday morning.

The police dog and his handler, State Police Trooper Jonathan Kelo, responded to a Stonington residence at around 1:22 a.m. to assist Stonington police.

Authorities were attempting to locate a suspect, Kurt Riley, 25, of 54 Stanton Lane, Pawcatuck, "who caused a disturbance and damaged property," according to State Police Troop E's Facebook page. The suspect left the scene on foot.

Riley was charged with second-degree breach of peace and second-degree criminal mischief. Stonington police's probable cause summary said the subject was "doing damage to the residence."

"The victim stated she could hear glass breaking and other items being damaged," the summary continued. "The accused fled the scene prior to police arrival but was apprehended a short time later with the assistance of a CSP K9 team."

Troop E's Facebook post describes how Kelo and Jack caught the suspect.

"A track was initiated that led deep into a wooded forest," the post read. "K9 Jack and his handler tracked over 500 yards, going through numerous backyards until entering the forest. In a heavily wooded area the suspect was located hiding behind a tree and was apprehended."

Trooper First Class Christine Jeltema said Jack was trying to earn his dinner, or his breakfast, or a post-midnight snack.

"Our dogs are food reward, so in order for them to eat, they have to do training," Jeltema said. "They do stuff like this every day so that when they do get the call, to the dog, they're going to get food regardless if it's for training or real life."