Project k9
Finding Inspiration in Every Turn
Project K9 is a heartfelt initiative dedicated to honoring the service and sacrifice of fallen K9 officers dogs. Launched in February 2024, this project provides hand-drawn portraits of deceased law enforcement K9s, created by artist Ash Royer and Mia of Mia’s Mission, to pay tribute to their bravery and the deep bond they shared with their handlers. Each portrait is crafted with meticulous care, capturing the unique spirit and dedication of these remarkable animals.
In collaboration with Mia's Mission, Project K9 has grown to honor 11 K9s, starting with the portraits of K9 Broko and K9 Barrett, which were presented at the "Hearts & Paws Gala" on February 10, 2024. Since then, Ash has continued to create portraits for K9s lost in the line of duty or due to illness. Mia's Mission manages logistics and communications with handlers, while Ash provides the artistic tribute, making this project a profound and ongoing expression of respect and remembrance.
Meet The Team
K9 Broko
CT state Police
At the Hearts & Paws Gala on February 10, 2024, Project K9 honored CT State Police K9 Broko with a special hand-drawn portrait. K9 Broko, identified as #9013, tragically lost his life on December 21, 2023, while attempting to serve a felony arrest warrant and execute a search warrant in Stonington, Connecticut. During the operation, a subject in the residence opened fire on officers, striking K9 Broko.
Having served with the Connecticut State Police for four years, K9 Broko was deeply respected and valued. The portrait presented at the gala was a tribute to his dedicated service and sacrifice.
K9 Barrett
Montville Police Department
At the Hearts & Paws Gala on February 10, 2024, K9 Barrett was honored with a hand-drawn portrait in recognition of his bravery and dedication. K9 Barrett, #forever9532, was awarded the Medal of Bravery by the Connecticut State Police along with his handler, Officer Witts of Montville PD.
In 2021, K9 Barrett played a heroic role in apprehending a fleeing felon armed with a firearm. During the encounter, the suspect struck Barrett multiple times in the head and face, resulting in severe injuries, including a brain bleed. Despite his courageous service, Barrett’s health deteriorated over the years, leading to his inoperable condition and eventual passing on June 1, 2023.
K9 Barrett and Officer Witts were exceptional ambassadors for K9 programs, actively participating in community events like local schools, summer camps, car shows, and farmers markets, educating and engaging with the public.
K9 Drago
CT State Police
K9 Drago, affectionately known as the "floppy ear boy," was celebrated as "one in a million" by those who knew him best. A remarkable partner on the streets and a standout member of the highly skilled CT State Police Tactical Unit, Drago was renowned for his sociable nature, signature look, and lovable personality.
Tragically, Drago passed away on July 4, 2024, due to medical complications. On August 17th, Drago’s handler, Trooper First Class Kaelberer, received a portrait of his beloved K9, marking the official launch of Project K9. This initiative provides hand-drawn portraits to K9 handlers in Connecticut to honor their fallen companions. Drago's portrait was the first of many, as Project K9 continues to offer heartfelt tributes to the state's cherished K9s.
K9 Union
CT State Police
On Saturday, August 24, 2024, at Dream Ride in Farmington, CT, Mia from Mia’s Mission surprised TFC Porrini of the Connecticut State Police Troop A with a special gift. In front of fellow K9 handlers and family members, Mia presented TFC Porrini with a hand-drawn portrait of K9 Union, created by Ash Royer.
K9 Union, who served faithfully with Troop A until his retirement in 2021, sadly passed away in July 2024. This portrait, part of Project K9, honors Union’s dedicated service and the deep bond between him and TFC Porrini. Union's portrait marks the fourth hand-drawn tribute provided by Project K9 to a K9 handler.
K9 JAY
Middlebury Police Department
On Friday, August 30th, 2024, Officer Demers of the Middlebury Police Department received the fifth hand-drawn portrait from Project K9, honoring his beloved K9 Jay. Officer Demers and Jay graduated from the 173rd State Police K9 Training Troop on May 28, 2015. Jay, acquired from Fidelco Guide Dog Services in Bloomfield, Conn., was part of a group that trains guide dogs for the blind and supports police K9 programs. In 2019, K9 Jay was recognized with an award by the Waterbury Police Department. Sadly, K9 Jay's End of Watch was August 12th, 2024. This portrait serves as a tribute to Jay’s dedicated service and the strong bond between him and Officer Demers.
K9 Drobec
Connecticut Dept. of Corrections
On Saturday September 21, 2024 durning the Connecticut K-9 Olympics held in Enfield, CT Officer Kristen Brousseau received a portrait of K-9 Drobec of the Connecticut Department of Corrections with the help of Renee DiNino WFSB Channel 3
Drobec, was 7-year-old German Shepherd/Belgian Malinois mix. Certified in patrol after graduating from the CT State Police K-9 Academy in 2016, Drobec achieved notable success, including first place in obstacles and third place overall at the 2018 Western CT K-9 Challenge. In 2021, he and Officer Brousseau were honored with the Stephen F. Davis Award for K-9 Patrol Handler of the Year. They also claimed the title of CT K-9 Olympic Champions 2023, securing first place overall.
End of Watch July 15, 2024
Officer Brousseau is the 6th handler to receive a drawn portrait from PROJECT K9. Project K9 is a heartfelt initiative dedicated to honoring the service and sacrifice of fallen K9 by gifting their handlers with a one of a kind hand drawn portrait
Updates:
Currently, Project K9 is preparing to honor four more K9 by gifting their handlers with hand-drawn portraits, which are eagerly awaiting to be gifted to their handlers. These portraits, each drawn by artist Ash Royer, will serve as a heartfelt tribute to the brave K9s who dedicated their lives to protecting and serving their communities. Each drawing captures the unique spirit and valor of these loyal companions, offering a lasting reminder of their service and the profound bond they shared with their handlers. These upcoming portraits represent the continued dedication of Project K9 to celebrating the legacy of these heroic K9s and providing their handlers with a cherished memento of their loyal partners.
We eagerly anticipate sharing these special tributes and honoring these remarkable K9s in the near future.