MSP canine teams receives beacon lights

Michigan State Police tracking dogs will be easier to see thanks to the benevolence of a Kalamazoo businessman.

Michael ‘Tonto’ Alexander, owner and president of Nite Beam Products, gave $1,800 for beacon lights for each dog at a Jan. 4 monthly training at the Mattawan Fire Department.

With the LED lights attached to the dog’s harnesses, K9 teams will now be more visible from the air, in dense areas and in low-light environments for the safety of the dog and its handler, agency officials said.

LED beacon lights are visible for up to three miles when not obstructed.

Capt, Michael Brown, commander of the Fifth District headquartered in Paw Paw, said Alexander’s support for law enforcement is appreciated.

MSP has 45 canine teams strategically placed throughout the state whose handlers answer calls for service 24/7.