By Danielle Coots
For the News-Current
BEAVERCREEK — Beavercreek Police Department’s K-9 DJ retired and now there is a new dog with a new handler. Officer Dave Majercak just finished his K-9 training with his new side-kick, Hans. The new K-9 is trained and ready to go to work with the police department.
The duo completed training Nov. 18, but they are continuing to bond and getting to know each other.
“I look forward to working with Hans. He’s my partner. He’s not the new family pet, but we’re working on developing a close bond,” K-9 officer Majericak said.
The prior police dog, DJ, served the Beavercreek police department for the past nine years and retired at the age of 11. DJ was a Belgian Malinois shepherd dog and was partnered up with Officer Williams. Like DJ, Hans and Majercak were trained by the Police Dog Services in Germantown with Steve Dunnin.
“He was a wonderful trainer. I might need some more work, but Hans will be fine,” said Officer Majercak.
Hans is a 21-month-old Belgian Malinois and takes commands in German and understands English. He can be seen out during community events like the Police Department’s Annual Open House.
“We call them Hans and Frans. So, if you see them out and about, feel free to call them that,” Beavercreek Chief Dennis Evers said.
The K-9 program was originally funded by the seizure of drug money. The funds that were appropriated helped fund the training of the dog, the purchase of the dog and essentials for the dog’s care. The K-9 unit has been responsible for tracking burglar suspects, bust drug dealers, seizure of property, vehicles, weapons and narcotics. The program has been instrumental in assisting schools with narcotic searches, assisting mutual aid throughout the Miami Valley and much more. The same and more is expected with K-9 Hans.
“One of the things that DJ excelled at was public relations. That was a big plus and we’re hoping that Hans will continue that,” Chief Evers said. “He’s been a good dog so far.”
