Newark Police Have Raised Funds for New K-9 Unit
The Newark Police Department is seeking $20,000 to add a second narcotics-detecting K-9 to its roster.
Updated on Oct. 7, 2026 in Philanthropy
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The Newark Police Department has raised $13,000 toward a $20,000 goal to purchase and equip a second K-9 unit. This expansion aims to ensure narcotics detection coverage when the current K-9 handler is off duty.
Why it matters
Adding a second unit will allow the department to maintain consistent coverage without needing to rely on outside agencies. The program, which began in 2006, relies on community support to outfit vehicles and acquire animals.
The department has secured $13,000 of its $20,000 target for the new K-9. The Friends of Fusion Foundation has historically supported the program with over $300,000 in total contributions over two decades.
The players
Newark Police Department
This local law enforcement agency serves the city of Newark and has managed a K-9 program since 2006.
Cpl. Jon Lee
He is a corporal with the Newark Police Department who has been selected to serve as the handler for the new K-9.
Friends of Fusion Foundation
This charitable organization has provided over $300,000 in support for the local K-9 program during its 20-year existence.
The details
Funds are being collected through community events such as the Back the Bluey fundraiser and the Main Street Mile race. Once acquired, the new dog will be handled by Cpl. Jon Lee and trained specifically for narcotics detection.
Timeline
The Newark Police Department K-9 program began in 2006.
The Back the Bluey event was held on October 4, 2026.
The Main Street Mile race took place on October 5, 2026.
Cpl. Jon Lee will select the new dog in December 2026.
The new K-9 unit is expected to start patrols in July 2027.
Market Landscape
This fundraising effort signals a strategic expansion for local law enforcement to decrease inter-agency reliance for specialized support. It reflects a long-term commitment to maintaining an internal K-9 capability that has been active since 2006.
Residents can contribute to the $20,000 goal through online donations or by participating in upcoming community races. These contributions directly fund the acquisition of the dog and the specialized kennel outfitting required for police vehicles.
The takeaway
The Newark Police Department is leveraging community engagement to expand its specialized law enforcement resources. By hitting fundraising targets, the department reduces its dependence on external agencies for narcotics-related operations.
What happens next
Cpl. Jon Lee is scheduled to select the new police dog in December 2026, followed by the unit's anticipated deployment on patrol in July 2027.
Further reading
Learn more about local efforts to support law enforcement through the Philanthropy section.
More information
To contribute to the cause, visit the online K-9 program donation form.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Newark Post.
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