Niko

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Niko is a black lab who was purchased as a young puppy by the Rumford Police Department in July 2018 to become Rumford's first drug-detection canine. Niko's first handler was Patrol Officer Bradlee Gallant and the Team began rigorous training in obedience, interactions with humans, and his main purpose of drug detection.  

As a young puppy, Niko began his training full of energy, spirit and excitement and quickly became one of the favorites of his class, excelling in all areas.

Niko absolutely loves to "work" and train. Whether he is at weekly training with other police K9 Teams or is in the field sniffing a car or other object for drugs, Niko clearly thinks this activity is the most fun any dog could ever have!

Since February 2021, Niko's new handler is Patrolman Lawrence Briggs. Niko and Officer Briggs hit it off immediately and the two are an inseparable rockstar team!

The Niko-Briggs K9 Team has become certified in drug-detection and is currently undergoing training and gaining experience in article search and missing persons search. Niko has been credited for sniffing out hundreds of thousands of dollars worth of dangerous narcotics and is often called upon by other local, county, state and federal law enforcement agencies because of his exceptionally accurate nose and track record! In fact, the Niko-Briggs K9 Team have received special deputization from the Oxford County Sheriff's Office, the Androscoggin County Sheriff's Office and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (as a Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force officer).

Our K9 Team continues to training every week at a minimum to keep Niko engaged and exceptionally proficient. His abilities to search for articles and missing persons are already proving to be top notch.

Niko has been called "a ham" as he's very photogenic and knows it. He loves kids, loves toys and loves to work and play. Officer Briggs often brings Niko to area schools for demonstrations or just to say "hi".