The Redding Colt 45s and Redding Police Department welcomed new K-9 officer “Colt” to the force Thursday evening.
In the above picture, Colt 45s chairman, Les Melburg, presented a $10,000 check to officer and K-9 handler, Joseph Lensing. The ceremony took place in front of Police Headquarters by City Hall.
While K-9 officers are necessarily imposing in the field, Colt is a well-behaved, sweet-natured German Shepherd. While off-duty, he will be a member of Officer Lensing’s family.
The K-9 program is funded solely by private donations, and the addition of Colt brings the total number of K-9 units in the Redding area up to six.
To kick off the 2025 season, Colt will “throw out the first pitch” on opening night, Friday, May 30th, against the Watsonville Aggies!
![Members of the Redding Police Department and Redding Colt 45s Board exchanging an oversized check for $10,000 to cover costs for new K-9 Officer "Colt". Colt is lying down in the grass in front of the group. [Formatted 1000x460]](http://reddingcolt45s.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/redding-police-department-000000-1000w460h-150x150.jpg)
![Close-up of office and K-9 handler, Joseph Lansing, with Colt by his side. [Formatted 970x1350]](http://reddingcolt45s.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/redding-police-department-000006-970w-1350h-150x150.jpg)
Local news coverage:
[KRCR] Redding police welcome new K-9 Colt, thanks to Colt 45s donation
[Action News] Redding Colt 45s donation funds new K9 officer for police
