04/10/2026
Hunter K9-03 Village of Pelham Police Department
It is with deep sadness that the Village of Pelham Police Department announces the passing of Hunter, K9-03 officer, who passed away suddenly and unexpectedly on April 8, 2026 of natural causes. Hunter would have turned 12 years old in December 2026. He is already greatly missed by the members of his department, the community he served and especially his handler, retired Sgt. Anthony Borsella and the Borsella family.
The Pelham Police Department’s K9 unit was established in 1997 with the Village’s first K9-01 officer, Jocky, from Romania. Jocky served with distinction until 2004, when he passed away from a 9/11 related illness while still active in the line of duty.
Dutch, K9-02, was from the Netherlands, and served honorably from 2005 until 2015 and passed away of natural causes while still on active duty.
Hunter, K9-03 was from Budapest, and proudly served the department from 2016-2024. All three K9 officers, Jocky, Dutch and Hunter served with Sgt Anthony Borsella and were New York State certified K9 teams; trained in patrol operations, tracking, obedience, agility, criminal apprehension, and narcotics detection.
Throughout his career, Hunter worked alongside numerous local police departments, as well as New York State and Federal law enforcement agencies. Shortly after completing the academy, Hunter assisted the New York State police on Interstate 95 in his first narcotics investigation. During that operation, he successfully located 14 kilograms of methamphetamine concealed in a hidden compartment on a tractor trailer car carrier. This marked the first of many successful narcotic detections, tracking operations, and evidence recoveries during his distinguished eight-year career.
In addition to his law enforcement duties, Hunter was a valued member of the Pelham Community. He regularly participated in the Pelham Recreation Tiny Tots programs, Huguenot Vehicle Fairs and many other community events, where he demonstrated the critical role of K9 officers and helped to educate the residents-especially children about their work and capabilities.
Hunter retired alongside Sgt. Borsella on May 19, 2024 after a dedicated and accomplished career. During his retirement he enjoyed time with his family and especially loved trips to the Jersey shore, where he was able to relax and enjoy two well-earned years.
The Pelham Police Department is proud to have had Hunter serve within its ranks, and honors the legacy of all its K9 officers; Jocky, Dutch and Hunter who worked tirelessly and enthusiastically to keep the residents of Pelham safe.
Please join us in remembering K9 Officer Hunter for his loyal service, dedication and unwavering commitment to duty. We extend our condolences to Sgt. Borsella and his family.
Rest in peace, K9 Hunter.
