From Officer to K9 Handler: Hope and Barkley’s Journey at YSU

Officer Hope Stoner’s journey at Youngstown State University started two and a half years ago when she officially joined the YSU Police Department. Stoner’s devotion to her job, her community, and the continuous development of her education and skills remains evident in all that she does.

Before becoming a police officer at YSU, Stoner was a student here, earning her bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice while completing the police academy in 2020. With a strong academic background, she set her sights on furthering her education and career. Now pursuing a master's degree in Criminal Justice, showcasing how YSU employees can take full advantage of the university’s educational benefits.

In her current role, Stoner serves as both a police officer and the University’s new canine handler. After the retirement of the previous canine, Gino, YSU was awarded a grant to continue the K9 program, and she eagerly applied. She went through a rigorous interview process and physical evaluation, ultimately earning the position of canine handler with Barkley, an explosive and firearms detection K9. Additionally, Stoner and Barkley underwent a comprehensive five-week training course at Shallow Creek Kennels in Sharpsville, Pennsylvania.

Her daily responsibilities have changed significantly with this new role. Aside from the usual patrol and response duties, Stoner now spends her Tuesdays training Barkley, working with other local police departments and participating in sweeps for explosives at schools and major public events. Her partnership with Barkley has not only enhanced campus safety but also added a new layer of interaction with the community. The duo’s presence at basketball games and other events helps ensure a safe and calm atmosphere, with Barkley’s keen sense of smell offering an extra level of protection.

Hope’s experience working alongside officers from Canfield, Mahoning County, and other local departments highlights her commitment to collaboration and constant growth in her field. These partnerships allow her to continually expand her skills, all while keeping campus and local areas safe.

While her canine work has added new layers to her role, she remains focused on her long-term professional goals. She’s eager to become a professor at YSU, sharing her expertise with students in the Criminal Justice program. Stoner credits her ongoing studies, coupled with her real-world experience, for helping her become an even more effective officer. She believes that the deeper insights she’s gaining in her master’s program are directly applicable to her day-to-day duties, making her more equipped to handle challenges and improve as a professional.

In addition to her formal education, Stoner reflects on the importance of mentorship. She credits Sergeant Mark Mehley, the previous K9 officer, as a significant influence in her career. Sergeant Mehley encouraged her to apply for the canine handler position, providing guidance and support every step of the way. Hope believes that working within YSU’s Police Department has provided significant opportunities for career advancement, and she encourages others to pursue similar paths, taking advantage of the university’s resources to help them succeed.

Stoner’s story combines her hands-on experience as an officer with a passion for learning and education, all while being an integral part of keeping YSU’s campus and surrounding community safe. Through hard work, dedication, and a drive to learn, Officer Hope Stoner is not only making an impact today but paving the way for the next generation of criminal justice professionals.