Six combination bulletproof and stab resistant vests were provided for Irvington’s K-9 unit today (9/28) in a ceremony that brought former Mayor Anthony Blasi back to town.

 

In 1969, Blasi led a petition drive to place the creation of the unit on the ballot. Voters approved the referendum by a 2:1 margin in the general election. Blasi captured his first elected office the following year, when he won an at-large seat on the Irvington Municipal Council. He was elected for a four-year term as mayor in 1982.

 

In the K-9 program, German shepherds are specially trained to enhance police work through tracking evidence and searching for and apprehending criminal suspects. The program has been so successful that Irvington trains other K-9 corps throughout the state, Police Director Michael Damiano said during the event.

 

“I applaud former Mayor Blasi for his record of service and dedication to the Irvington community,” according to Mayor Wayne Smith. “It means a lot for him to join us here today,” he added.

The vests cost $825 each and are made of lightweight, but sturdy Kevlar, like those of the police officers. They were donated by the Humane Society of Newark, which operates the Vested Interest Fund and attracts contributions primarily through individuals, student and civic groups. Marion Roberts, who donated one of the six vests, attended the ceremony with her husband, former Irvington fire captain Bob Roberts, a 30-year department veteran. The program was created in the aftermath of the lethal shooting of a K-9 named Solo by a fugitive in Monmouth County, according to Debbie Beyfuss, coordinator since its inception in 1997.

 

The Irvington K-9 unit is composed of a supervisor, Sgt. Charles Burghardt; and officers Brian Rice, Alfredo Aleman, Dharmasena Gunatilaka, Michael Walker and Steven Woodard.

 

 

 

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