Brick Township Police Department’s K9 unit was among the agencies represented during a large-scale maritime training exercise hosted by the FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force on April 22.

The Explosive & Narcotics Maritime Training Exercise brought together K9 teams from across the tri-state area for a coordinated operation focused on explosive and narcotic detection in maritime and urban environments.

Representing Brick Township were Ptl. Ray LaPoint and K9 Rebel, Ptl. Glen Pacyna and K9 Diesel, and Ptl. Melia with K9 Jax.

As part of the exercise, teams boarded vessels, crossed the Hudson River, and traveled into Manhattan, where they conducted extensive searches for large quantities of narcotics and explosives in vehicles and boats at Pier 11. Additional operations included searches in buildings and shipping containers throughout Jersey City.

The training was designed to strengthen interagency coordination and prepare law enforcement teams for high-risk scenarios involving maritime transportation, urban infrastructure, and potential terrorist threats.

Officials said the exercise highlighted the critical role K9 teams play in safeguarding public spaces and responding to evolving security challenges.

Brick Township Police praised its handlers and K9 partners for their professionalism, dedication, and ongoing commitment to public safety.