Macomb Township board welcomes new sheriff’s K‑9 funded by Gallo Family Foundation

Macomb Township trustees on Tuesday introduced a new Macomb County Sheriff’s Office K‑9 and its handler and thanked the Gallo Family Foundation for funding the placement.

Commander Abro of the Macomb County Sheriff’s Office told the board the township recently added two deputies and that the new canine will enhance public safety in the community. "Tonight, we're honored to introduce the newest member of the canine unit, canine Coda, who is here with us today," Abro said, and he specifically thanked the Gallo Family Foundation for its support.

Deputy Aaron Schmidler described the dog’s training, saying the K‑9 completed extensive training at Oakland Community College and is trained in apprehension, tracking, narcotics detection ("trained in 5 different narcotics currently") and protection. Schmidler said the K‑9 will be used on routine patrols, for missing‑person searches and, when appropriate, in school security operations such as locker searches.

Board members voiced appreciation for the donation and the sheriff’s office partnership. Trustee comments linked the donation to potential benefits for school safety, family reunifications and responses to vulnerable people who wander. Supervisor Viviano and multiple trustees publicly thanked the Gallo family for the contribution.

The presentation included a short, informal swearing‑in; board members noted the department also plans to start a mounted unit after the new year. The sheriff’s office said the K‑9 and deputy will be stationed in Macomb Township as part of the county’s ongoing presence in the area.

Next steps: the K‑9 was welcomed and presented at the meeting; no township action was required beyond the ceremonial welcome.