Date of Release:   October 8, 2009

Reference:    Assignment to K-9 Handler

On October 8, 2009 the Portsmouth Police Department selected Officer Eric Kinsman to fill a recently vacated K-9 Handler position. He will immediately assume K-9 duties for K-9 Titan following Officer Michael Kotsonis’ request for transfer.

K-9 Handler Kinsman began his career with the Portsmouth NH Police Department in January of 2003 after being a police officer with the UNH Police and Durham NH Police. He brings a total of 10 years of law enforcement experience to this position. K-9 Handler Kinsman is a member of the Seacoast Emergency Response Team and Portsmouth Police Accident Investigation Team. He is also responsible for street training our rookie officers as a Field Training Officer. He comments on his new position “I am very excited about this new opportunity and to be able to offer more to the community.”

K-9 Handler Kinsman has a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology and Masters Degree of Education. He is involved in the NHPTV telethon each year and regularly assists Special Olympics with fundraising activities. During the summer you may see him often as a Little League Coach.

K-9 Handler Kinsman is married with two children.

Sgt. Darrin Sargent has assigned K-9 Handler Kinsman to the evening shift where he will begin his field training alongside K-9 Handler Scott Pearl and the training staff of the NH Police K-9 Academy.

Attached photo. Sergeant Darrin Sargent presenting K-9 Handler Eric Kinsman with his K-9 hat.