K9 Unit
To report an accident or other incident requiring immediate police assistance, DIAL 911 or:
Ben Franklin Bridge:
(856) 968-3301
Walt Whitman Bridge:
(215) 218-3701
Commodore Barry Bridge:
(856) 241-4801
Betsy Ross Bridge:
(856) 317-5901
PATCO:
(856) 963-7995

The primary function of the Delaware River Port Authority Police Department (DRPA PD) K9 Unit is to ensure safe passage throughout the region for all patrons who travel within the DRPA/PATCO system. The DRPA PD K9 Unit currently consists of two K9 teams: a police officer and a dual-purpose explosive/patrol canine certified by the United States Police Canine Association (USPCA). To become certified, each K9 team must complete a 14-week Basic Patrol course and a 10-week Explosive Detection course. Our K9 Teams also attend monthly in-service training with the Philadelphia Police Department K9 Unit to ensure the highest level of proficiency in patrol and explosive Detection.
Our K9 teams frequently conduct random searches for explosives on motor vehicles, trains and stations, bridge structures, and other vital DRPA/PATCO property segments. The K9 teams are also cross-trained for patrol, including tracking suspects or missing persons, evidence/article searches, building searches, and criminal apprehension. Additionally, when requested, our K9 teams provide mutual-aid assistance to law enforcement agencies in the region.
On occasion, you will see our K9 teams participating in various regional events, such as the Philadelphia Police Department Hero Thrill Show, Paws for Cause, the annual Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia K9 demonstration, and various school demonstrations. Our participation in these events allows the team to build trust within the community and educate them on the benefits of using canines in law enforcement.
From Lindenwold to Philadelphia, our DRPA Police K9 teams are on patrol to keep us all safe!