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Newport swears in Beau as city police K‑9 for schools and events
Summary
The Newport Police Department introduced and ceremonially sworn in a new community policing K‑9, Beau, and his handler, Community Police Officer Nick Saint Lawrence. Chief Ryan Duffy said the dog will work in schools, at events and as part of peer support for officers.
The Newport City Council ceremonially welcomed Beau, the newest member of the Newport Police Department's K‑9 program, during its meeting. Chief Ryan Duffy introduced the handler and said the department had worked for years to stand up a canine program.
"I'm excited to be here," Chief Duffy said as he introduced the team and described the program's intent. Community Police Officer Nick Saint Lawrence told the council Beau will be used in schools, summer camps, mentorship programs and to support detectives working with juveniles. "He will be at all our events, our summer camps," Saint Lawrence said.
Councilors performed a light‑hearted swearing‑in and thanked the volunteer trainers and sponsors who provided equipment, grooming and transportation support. City officials said the canine will also be evaluated for therapy certification and may receive training for explosives detection at a later date if the department pursues that capability.
The council did not take formal action beyond the ceremonial recognition and expressions of support; city staff said more details about the K‑9 program's operations and certification timeline will be provided through the police department.
