k9 Okki
K9 Okki is a 4-year-old Belgian Malinois who was imported from Holland. He is certified through the North American Police Work Dog Association as a dual-purpose patrol / narcotic detection dog, and is partnered with Sgt. Jay Rainville. Sgt. Rainville and K9 Okki are members of the Special Reaction Team. Throughout their time together they have assisted several federal agencies and local departments. Sgt. Rainville and K9 Okki train with East Hartford, CT Police Sgt. Todd Mona and the Capital Region Training Group.
K9 Nick
K9 Nick has been partnered with Lieutenant Sandra Bonvehi of the East Providence Police Department since 2023.
Born on September 28, 2022, Nick is a male German Shorthaired Pointer imported from Hungary.
K9 Nick is certified through the North American Police Work Dog Association (NAPWDA) as a single purpose explosives detection canine.
His specialized skills include explosives detection, firearms and gunshot residue (GSR) detection, evidence recovery, and friendly tracking.
Throughout their partnership, Lieutenant Bonvehi and K9 Nick have assisted numerous local, state, and federal agencies on a variety of operations and investigations.
To maintain the highest standards of proficiency and operational readiness, they regularly train with the Capital Region Training Group and the Hartford Healthcare Training Group, both in Connecticut under Sergeant Todd Mona.
Although not formally trained as a comfort dog, Nick has naturally become an important part of the department’s community outreach efforts. His exceptionally friendly temperament, gentle nature, and calm demeanor have made him a source of comfort for children, victims, community members, and first responders alike. His ability to connect with people has allowed him to take on an informal comfort dog role, making a positive impact wherever he goes.
When he’s not working, Nick’s favorite activities are chasing bunnies, sunbathing and earning his favorite reward, a ball (Ball is life!). His incredible drive, enthusiasm, and friendly temperament make him an outstanding ambassador for the East Providence Police Department both on and off duty.
