From Shelter Dog to Police Hero: Meet K9 Ron
A pitbull K9? He was saved from euthanasia and is now a police hero. K9 Ron, a pit bull rescue dog, is the new star of the Delran PD.
by Admin
Nov 7, 2025
The newest member of the Delran Township Police Department has four legs, a tail that will not quit, and a story that proves heroes come from the most unexpected places. Meet K9 Ron, a pit bull rescue dog who is already making his community proud. His journey to wearing a badge is a powerful one, showing what can happen when a dedicated animal is given a second chance.
From a Shelter's Last Call
Just a few months ago, Ron’s future was uncertain. He was in the Minneapolis Animal Care Center, a shelter dog just days away from being euthanized. His life was saved by Unbreakabull Pit Bull Rescue, a group that saw his potential. Ron’s second chance got even bigger when he entered a program with K9 Protectors, a nonprofit organization that trains shelter dogs for police work. Ron trained hard, learning to become a narcotics detection canine. But even with his new skills, his breed caused some police departments to hesitate.
The Right Department, The Right Partner
That is, until the Delran PD came along. The department and Ron's new handler, Patrolman Tyler Malia, were open-minded. Patrolman Malia admitted he was surprised at first. “I've always wanted a K-9. I've always wanted a lab or a shepherd or a Malinois,” Malia said. “So when I heard he was a pit bull, I was a little taken aback at first.”
But that hesitation vanished upon meeting Ron. Chief Matt Gasper recalled the decision. “Met him, saw he was such a lovable dog and he was good at what he does. It was 100% go from there,” said Chief Gasper. Patrolman Malia agreed, “Instantly, I fell in love.” Ron and his new handler attended handler school together and prepared to serve the community.
Sworn In and Already a Hero
K9 Ron graduated from the Canine Training Academy and immediately proved his worth. Less than a month after graduating, Ron was deployed to help a neighboring town with a narcotics search. His instincts led to a meth bust and two arrests. Just days later, he was deployed again in another jurisdiction, where his positive indication on a vehicle led to the discovery of narcotics and a firearm. On October 28, 2025, K9 Ron officially took his oath of office at the Delran Township Municipal building, where he was sworn in by Mayor Barnes Hutchins. The ceremony also celebrated the winner of the new K9 patch design contest, Delran High School Senior Tyler Grose.
A Final Thought
K9 Ron serves as both a narcotics detection and community policing canine, already breaking down barriers and changing minds. His handler, Patrolman Malia, summed it up perfectly: “Just because he's a rescue pit doesn’t mean anything. He's the most lovable dog I've ever been around.” K9 Ron's story is a powerful reminder of how rescue animals can become true heroes, and how open-minded police work builds stronger, safer communities for everyone.
For more positive police stories, check out our full collection, including the heartwarming retirement of K9 Hugo.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What breeds are police dogs?
While German Shepherds and Belgian Malinois are very common, police departments use a wide variety of breeds. These can include Labrador Retrievers (popular for detection), Bloodhounds (for tracking), and even mixed breeds from shelters, like K9 Ron. The choice depends on the specific job, such as patrol, tracking, or detection.
2. How are police dogs trained for narcotics detection?
Narcotics detection dogs, or "drug sniffing dogs," are trained using positive reinforcement. Trainers pair the scent of a specific narcotic with the dog's favorite reward (like a toy or praise). The dog learns that finding that specific smell results in a reward. They are not exposed to the drugs themselves, only to the scent.
3. What does a police K9 unit do?
A police K9 unit is a specialized group of officers and their highly trained canine partners. Their duties are diverse and can include narcotics detection, bomb detection, searching for missing persons, tracking suspects, crowd control, and community outreach.
4. How does someone become a police K9 handler?
Typically, an individual must first be a sworn police officer with several years of experience. They can then apply for an open position within their department's K9 unit. If selected, the officer undergoes a rigorous and specialized police K9 handler school, or police dog academy, with their new canine partner.
5. Why are police dogs given an oath of office?
While a police dog swearing-in ceremony is not legally binding, it is a formal way for a department to welcome the K9 to the force and present them to the public. It serves to honor the dog's new role, recognize the K9 as an official partner, and celebrate the start of their service with the community.
