Representative Seth Magaziner was in Cranston March 14 to celebrate $344,000 in federal funding for the Cranston Police Department, specifically support vehicles for the departments’ K-9 units.

The K-9 units, which are composed of three police dogs and one critical therapy dog named “CALI,” who comforts young victims of abuse, as well as their officer handlers, were in need of new K-9 transport and police patrol vehicles to replace four aged vehicles.

“Law enforcement officers and their canine counterparts work tirelessly to keep Rhode Islanders safe, and we owe it to them to ensure they have the equipment they need to do their jobs,” said Representative Magaziner. “I’m proud to secure this federal funding for the Cranston Police Department to support their K-9 unit and will continue to do my part in congress to support local law enforcement.”

The K-9 unit police dogs assist Cranston Police in search and rescue operations of missing persons, searches of property, and narcotic detection, among other duties.

Mayor Hopkins was present at the event to thank Representative Magaziner, and to laud the vital role K-9 units play in the city.

"We are incredibly grateful to Representative Magaziner for his tireless efforts in securing the much-needed federal funding for our new K-9 officer vehicles,” Hopkins said. “Our officers and their canine counterparts play a vital part in various operations of the Cranston Police Department. This support will not only enhance the safety and efficiency of our police force but also strengthen the bond between our community and law enforcement. We truly appreciate his dedication to serving our town and making it a safer place for all residents."

Cranston Police Chief Col. Michael Winquist thanked Representative Magaziner for his support as well.

"The Cranston Police Department thanks Congressman Magaziner for his support of law enforcement by making this valuable grant opportunity available,” Winquist said. “These funds will allow us to replace four vehicles that are severely aged and currently serving the four canines under the care of the Department. Equipping our human and canine officers will ensure we provide optimum service to the residents of Cranston."

The Cranston Police K-9 unit funding is among 14 grant requests secured by Rep. Magaziner in the first tranche of government funding legislation for fiscal year 2024 that was signed into law by President Biden.