MANCHESTER – Normally when a police officer retires, he or she has a sign off ceremony on their last day of service surrounded by the police chief and fellow officers. For one particular four-legged officer, however, it was a time for petting and treats.
Township Police dog Lynk retired from the department’s K-9 Unit after nearly a decade of loyal and distinguished service, His longtime partner Sgt. Steve Wendruff was there with him and noted that K-9 Lynk had served with distinction in patrol and narcotics detection since 2015.
Lynk’s work has played a critical role in countless operations involving drug interdiction, suspect apprehension, missing person searches, and community outreach, Wendruff said.
“Today is a bittersweet day as I officially retire my partner K9 Lynk after 10 years of dedicated services with Manchester Township. Lynk has been so much more than a working dog. He has been my loyal partner, my protector and a true member of our law enforcement family,” he said.
“From the first day that we started working together, I knew he was special. His drive, intelligence and heart had made him an incredible asset to the department and to the community we serve,” Wendruff added.
The officer thanked his family and friends “for their unwavering support over the years and my co-workers at the department who have always been there for both Lynk and I. I want to acknowledge all the K9 teams that I had the privilege to work alongside during my career. You shared advice, training, long nights and even a few laughs along the way and I am grateful for that bond.”
“K9 Lynk, you will forever be a hero in Manchester Township,” Police Chief Antonio Ellis added. The police foundation purchased a shadow box for K-9 Lynk’s retirement to honor him. Lynk was gifted many goodies he could enjoy at home.
Many K9 officers from throughout the state also joined in on the celebration in support of Lynk’s retirement. They barked and howled in excitement as Lynk did his last “on duty” walk out of the Manchester Township Police Station.
“A special thank you as well to all the K9 teams that came out today to give Lynk the farewell he deserves,” Sgt. Wendruff commented.
Council Vice President James Vaccaro read a proclamation prepared by Mayor Joseph Hankins during the ceremony that reviewed Lynk’s law enforcement tenure with the township police department.
The proclamation noted that the proud pooch was born on February 24, 2014, in Hungary. Lynk began his career in law enforcement after being purchased through funds seized from drug investigations. He graduated from the Ewing Police K9 Patrol Academy (Class #3) in December 2015, followed by certification in narcotics detection at the New Jersey State Police Scent Detection K-9 Academy (Class #16) in June 2016.
K9 Lynk is one of the last remaining marijuana-imprinted K9s in service in New Jersey. Throughout his crime fighting journey, he worked alongside local, county, state, and federal agencies – including the FBI and DEA – and was instrumental in major drug seizures and investigations.
The police department released the following statistics associated with Lynk’s work over the years with career drug seizure totals from 2015–2025:
• Marijuana: 1,137,459.5 grams – $22,749,170.50
• Cocaine: 315.5 grams – $25,240
• Crack Cocaine: 166 grams – $16,650
• Heroin: 6,382 wax folds – $63,820
• Ecstasy: 107 pills – $5,350
• Methamphetamine: 9 grams – $900
• Firearms: Numerous seizures
• Total Drug Value Seized: $22,861,130.50
• U.S. Currency Seized: $1,722,170
Lynk is also a video star. He was featured in a Pennsylvania SPCA documentary that highlighted the vital role of police K-9s in modern policing and community trust-building.
“Looking back at Lynk’s career, I can say without a doubt that he has made a lasting impact. He has helped take dangerous individuals off the street, located missing persons and stood by my side through situations where I needed him most,” Lynk’s partner said.
Lynk’s legacy includes the department’s only criminal apprehension (bite) during a burglary in progress, and he will be remembered for his unmatched loyalty, courage, and impact.
“There is a level of trust between a handler and their canine partner that can’t easily be described. It is unlike anything else,” Sgt. Wendruff added. “Lynk always had my back, no matter the circumstances and I will forever be thankful for that.”
Those present extended their wish that Lynk has a life full of rest, play, and recognition for a job well done. Lynk will enjoy his retirement with Wendruff who added, “he has truly earned his retirement which I am sure will now be filled with extra treats, long naps and plenty of well-deserved relaxation at home. I couldn’t think of a better way to celebrate the incredible career of such an amazing partner.”
