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JOHNSON CITY – The Johnson City Police Department (JCPD) has announced the newest addition to its team: K-9 Marsha, a Belgian Malinois trained in narcotic detection, specializing in cocaine, heroin, and methamphetamine.

K-9 Marsha and her handler, Officer Zach Harris, recently completed an intensive five-week handler training program at Tri-State Canine Services in Ohio. The training included building, area, and article searches, tracking, apprehension, and narcotics detection. The duo also earned certification from the North American Working Dog Association, which they will renew annually.

“We are thrilled to welcome K-9 Marsha and Officer Harris to the K-9 Unit,” said JCPD Chief Billy Church. “K-9 teams play a vital role in policing, and we look forward to seeing the positive impact K-9 Marsha and Officer Harris will make in deterring and fighting crime in our community.”

The addition of K-9 Marsha was made possible through the JCPD Drug Fund, which is funded by drug asset seizures and fines. The $15,000 purchase included both K-9 Marsha and her training alongside Officer Harris.

K-9 Marsha is now officially on duty, enhancing the department’s efforts to combat illegal narcotics and improve safety in Johnson City.