Brewerton and Zeke with Bucks County Sheriff Fred Harran (Credit: Bucks County Sheriff's Department)
Bucks County Sheriff’s Deputy Christina Brewerton and her K9 partner, Zeke, are earning high praise from federal authorities after playing a pivotal role in cracking a domestic bombing case this summer.
The duo received a special commendation from the FBI’s Newark Division for their investigative work that helped lead to the arrest of a Warminster man accused of detonating an explosive device outside his former supervisor’s home in Delran, New Jersey, according to the Bucks County Sheriff's Office.
The July 26 blast, which occurred in the early morning hours, sent nails and bolts flying across a quiet neighborhood, damaging a vehicle and nearby houses.
Federal investigators quickly launched a multi-agency probe, and days later called in Brewerton and Zeke, a certified explosives detection dog, to assist.
On Aug. 1, the pair searched two vehicles linked to suspect Michael Patrick Takacs Jr. — a black Jeep Renegade and a white work truck parked outside his Warminster residence. Zeke alerted to explosive material near the passenger sides of both vehicles, giving investigators critical evidence that tied Takacs to the bombing and provided probable cause for his arrest.
Takacs now faces federal charges in Camden, including transporting explosives with intent to intimidate, unlawful possession of explosive devices, and related offenses. Each count carries the potential for up to a decade in prison and significant fines.
Sheriff Fred Harran called the commendation a testament to both the skill of his deputy and the value of Bucks County’s K9 unit.
“Their dedication and specialized skills were instrumental in a complex and dangerous investigation,” Harran said. “This recognition from the FBI underscores the vital role our K9 team plays in protecting the public and supporting law enforcement at every level.”
For Brewerton and Zeke, the commendation is another milestone in a partnership built on training, trust, and service. For Bucks County, it is a reminder that even in federal cases with wide-reaching consequences, local deputies and their K9s can make the difference in securing justice.
