News Flash

June 14, 2018 - The newest four-legged member of Hampton's K-9 unit is a German Shepherd named J-Louie who was donated to the city by a Connecticut non-profit in honor of a fallen Navy Seal.

Special Warfare Operator Jason D. Lewis of Virginia Beach was part of a military convoy in Iraq that was hit by an explosive device on July 6, 2007. According to his Bronze Star Medal w/valor citation: "Petty Officer Lewis was mortally wounded in a heroic attempt to provide additional security to his team. By his extraordinary guidance, zealous initiative and total dedication to duty, Petty Officer Lewis reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service." 

The Hometown Foundation, a Cheshire, Conn. non-profit that raises money to support programs involving children, major illnesses, animal welfare, emergency response personnel and more, contacted Hampton police in April about donating a K-9. There was just one request - that the dog be named after Lewis, a native of nearby Brookfield, Conn., whose nickname was J-Louie. 

Jason Lewis' wife and three children, who still live in Virginia Beach, were on hand Wednesday evening when K-9 J-Louie was officially introduced to Hampton City Council. The powerful-looking dog is already in training to replace a retiring K-9, and will work on patrol and explosive detection for the city. Master Police Officer Tom Hendrickson said: "He not only provides an important service to our citizens, he also continues the legacy of a true American hero, Jason Lewis."