Lieutenant Johnson with the East Palestine Police Department (EPPD) is the main Officer for our local K-9 Unit. Lt. Johnson previously worked with Toney, the K-9 prior to the arrival of Fran Chevy. Now working with Fran exclusively, Lt. Johnson shares that Fran has done exceptionally in training and in the transition to bring in our law enforcing paw team.
Born in North Carolina, Fran has been a strong asset to our community and surrounding areas throughout 2026. From assisting with traffic control, to busts in the streets, Fran has had a long list of successful stories while attending training twice a month with Lt. Johnson. The pair will soon travel to Michigan in October, where Fran will continue his extensive training.
The East Palestine K-9 Unit has always been solely operational through fundraising and donations, which has led a strong sense of community pride for years. Currently, the EPPD has a running t-shirt fundraiser for Fran, which can be ordered by calling the Police Department at 330-426-4341. If organizations or individuals would like to make a donation to help the continued support of our K-9 Unit, checks are acceptable made payable to the East Palestine Patrolman Association, K-9 Unit. Helps us keep supporting our paws that enforce the laws!
For more information, visit the East Palestine Division of Police (EPPD) Facebook page by clicking here: East Palestine Division of Police or call the East Palestine Police Department at 330-426-4341.