Woonsocket Police Department introduces K-9 unit
Posted on: January 30, 2017 - 4:11pm
Press Release
Woonsocket Police Department introduces K-9 unit
WPD K-9 unit returns after 25-year hiatus
WOONSOCKET, RI: Chief Thomas Oates announced today, at an afternoon press conference, the launch of the Woonsocket Police Department’s new K-9 unit. Chief Oates, Mayor Lisa Baldelli-Hunt and K-9 officer Jason Berthelette participated in the introduction of the department’s police dog, Aspen.
“I made a commitment to this community when I was appointed to this position and I am determined to do anything in my power to make this department the best it can be,” stated Woonsocket Police Chief, Thomas Oates.
The additional of a K-9 unit will assist the department with a range of law enforcement activities including, narcotic searches, crime scene investigation, and suspect apprehension. Already, the K-9 unit has successfully contributed to the apprehension of a suspect wanted for arrest and the discovery of a weapon discarded while in pursuit of another suspect wanted for arrest.
“Chief Oates has wasted no time in implementing new initiatives that serve to build upon the already great law enforcement efforts our department consistently performs,” added Mayor Baldelli-Hunt. “This would not be possible without the contributions of Officer Berthelette, who has gone above and beyond to develop the skills necessary to perform and to personally care for Aspen”
WPD’s K-9 unit will be led by Patrolman Jason Berthelette, an 11-year veteran of the department. Officer Berthelette has been certified as a K-9 handler and has undergone extensive training over the past 10 years.
“The brave men and women of the Woonsocket Police Department deserve the best possible tools to assist their efforts as they work to keep our community safe,” said Mayor Lisa Baldelli-Hunt. “The City’s new K-9 unit improves the ability of our public safety professionals to effectively do their job while keeping them and our residents out of harm’s way.”
Funding for WPD’s new unit was supplemented through generous contributions from members of the community including, Woonsocket Rotary Club, Inferno Audio, Sunrise Pizza and Vested Interests in Canines Inc. Aspen, WPD’s latest addition to its force, is a three year old female German Shepherd.
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