Suffolk Unleashes New Police K-9 Facility

Suffolk County's four-legged crime fighters have a new home.

County Executive Ed Romaine joined police officials and lawmakers in Hauppauge to unveil a modern K-9 facility, replacing aging kennels and temporary trailers with climate-controlled accommodations, enhanced security and expanded training space.

The new facility increases kennel capacity from eight dogs to 14, featuring indoor-outdoor runs, 24-hour surveillance and dedicated office space for handlers.

“Suffolk County will stay the safest county in America if we make the necessary investments today for a safer tomorrow,” Romaine said. “The canine units are a critical part of law enforcement.”

Designed and built in-house by the Department of Public Works, the project saved taxpayers $300,000 in design costs and finished within budget.

Police Commissioner Kevin Catalina said the previous facility dated to the 1980s and was constructed by canine handlers themselves.

“Our canines play an important role in protecting Suffolk County, and their health and safety are a priority,” Catalina said.

Legislator Steve Flotteron, chairman of the Public Safety Committee, emphasized the importance of investing in police infrastructure.

“Besides solving crimes, they're saving lives,” Flotteron said. “And we need to invest in this.”

Sergeant James Curley, who oversees the Canine Unit, noted its 62-year history and the dedication of its 87 handlers over that period.

“These canines are like professional athletes. They deserve to be treated that way,” Curley said.

Romaine also outlined additional police infrastructure investments, including plans to renovate the 180,000-square-foot John J. Foley Building into a modern police headquarters, with construction expected to begin next year.

Officials are also exploring a new police shooting range, potentially supported by private donations.

The county executive closed with a lighthearted observation about man's best friend.

“They say if you're in politics and you want a good friend, buy a dog.”