Hamilton the Labrador earns his badge at Suffolk Police; first therapy dog on the force

He’s officially on the force — and he’s just adorable.

Hamilton, a 19-month-old black Labrador Retriever, received his Suffolk County Police shield Thursday during a press conference in Hauppauge.

Partnered with Officer George Politis, Hamilton is tasked with providing emotional support to both sworn officers and members of the department’s civilian staff. He’ll comfort officers involved in shootings, assist communications employees handling high-stress calls, and be available to anyone in the department in need of support.

“Hamilton is here for anyone who needs him, for any reason,” Suffolk Police Commissioner Kevin Catalina said, presenting the dog with his badge.

Hamilton was donated by the nonprofit organization Puppies Behind Bars, which trains incarcerated individuals to raise service dogs. Puppies enter the program at 8 weeks old and live with their handlers for up to two years before beginning their professional roles.

The Police Benevolent Association and Suffolk County Police Foundation helped bring Hamilton to the department, including outfitting Politis’ patrol vehicle for safe transport of the dog.

In addition to supporting employees, Hamilton will participate in community engagement, including school visits designed to build trust between young people and the police, the department said.

Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine joined Catalina in praising Hamilton’s arrival, highlighting the positive impact the therapy dog will have on the department and the community.

_{Top photos: SCPD/Facebook}