The Sheboygan Police Department recognizes that education of youth, and the general public, is a priority in curtailing drug activity. The K-9 presentations will provide insight into the consequences of drug use, and assist in building a positive relationship with the public by working together in combating drugs.
The Sheboygan Police Department has maintained an active canine program since 1989. The first three canines on the Department were dual-purpose and used for both patrol work and narcotics detection. The handlers and K-9’s were Lt. Jeff Johnston and his K-9 partner Cello; in 1995, Officer David Adams took over with his K-9 partner Daro; and in 2000 Officer Eric Edson took over with his K-9 partner Duc. The department re-evaluated the K-9 program in 2006 and decided to focus solely on K-9 narcotic detection. This resulted in Officer Trisha Saeger hitting the streets with K-9 partner Bailey. Due to an illness, Bailey retired and in 2009, Saeger welcomed a new partner, Bud, while being joined by Officer Todd Danen and his partner Kramer. Officer Anna Taylor patrolled with K-9 partner Max from 2018 until his retirement in 2025.
Officer Matthew Heimerl and K-9 partner Grimm make up our current K-9 team.
The ever changing atmosphere and mode of operation of criminal elements within the City of Sheboygan demonstrated the need for two narcotics canine teams. The Department has seen an increase in narcotic arrests and drug related crimes over the past several years. The K-9 Unit is a proactive component that joins specific efforts to fight drugs in the community. The other components include the Sheboygan County MEG Unit and the Sheboygan Police Department Street Crimes Unit.
In addition to locating narcotics, K9 Max and K9 Grimm are trained in locating missing persons, article searches and tracking.
The K-9 Unit is supported thru the generous donations of community supporters.
Demonstrations can be scheduled by contacting the K-9 Unit.
Officer Matt Heimerl: MH14325@sheboyganwi.gov
Supervisor: Captain Joel Kuszynski
Email: JK24300@sheboyganwi.gov
