The Zionsville Police Department has a new four-legged member, K-9 Mika. Mika is a one-year-old Belgian Malinois mixed with German Shepherd from Hungary.
Mika trained at Vohne Liche Kennels in Denver, Indiana and is efficient in drug-detection, tracking and protecting other officers. Mika’s handler is Officer Josh Stutesman, who previously worked with K-9 Jelka. Jelka passed away from cancer last summer.
Stutesman and Mika have completed a six-week training course and will begin working together on patrol soon. The department has one other K-9, Thor.
“Mika is going to be a great addition to the Zionsville Police Department K-9 Unit,” Officer Stutesman said. “What she has shown in the first six weeks of training is absolutely amazing for as young as she is. She will continue to grow and improve her skills over time.”
“Our department was happy to welcome K-9 Mika to the force in November,” said Chief Spears. “ZPD was able to purchase Mika with a very generous donation by a local family. K-9 Mika and her handler Corporal Josh Stutesman have been diligently training over the past six weeks. ZPD is excited to have Mika on our team and there is no doubt, with Corporal Stutesman as her handler, she will quickly find her way into the hearts of Zionsville.”