A new canine unit has been assigned to the Michigan State Police Lakeview Post. Trooper Joe Bozek and his partner Yaro, a 2-year-old German Shepherd, began their assignment at the Lakeview Post on Monday, August 20.

Trooper Bozek was chosen to be a canine handler after successfully completing a rigorous selection process that included a demanding run through rough terrain. He then went to MSP’s canine school, where he selected and named Yaro. The two went through 14 weeks of training together and graduated from the 2012 MSP Canine School on August 17, along with four other new canine handlers.

Yaro is trained in tracking and narcotics detection. Trooper Bozek is a member of the 121st Trooper Recruit School and has served at the former Newaygo Post and at the Hart Post. He received a lifesaving award earlier this year.