|
10/11/2007 12:59 PM
Ellwood City's newest Police Officer celebrates
second birthday:
6/8/2007
EllwoodCity.org staff
On Friday June 8, 2007, Jozek ('Joe-zeck'), the newest
edition to the Ellwood City Police Force, celebrated his second birthday.
The one-hour birthday party was held outside the Municipal Building downtown
Ellwood City. People from the community were invited to celebrate and to
bring gifts and donations. The donations will fund many of Jozek’s special
needs, such as a specialized vehicle, bullet proof vest, veterinary care,
life insurance, kennel food, leash, badge, and much more. Those who brought
gifts received a free Jozek picture card. Cake was provided for everyone in
attendance. Many of the walk-up attendees were greeted with the wet nose
of Jozek and many took time to pet and play with the birthday dog.
Jozek completed his 10-week initial training course just a week and a half
ago. Since he became a member of the ECPD, he has assisted with five
arrests involving drugs—one of which was of substantial amount.
EllwoodCity.org learned Jozek responds passively when he detects drugs by
either sitting or lying down. He is a well-trained police dog, only
responding to the commands given by Officer Michael McBride spoken in
Czech.
Jozek resides with Officer McBride and will continue to
receive three 8-hour training sessions per month. Generally a police dog
retires between the ages of 4 and 8 years. Hopefully our Ellwood City
community can continue to count on Jozek for the full 8 years.
Ellwood City's new Chief of Police, Richard McDonald,
stated that Jozek is a valuable asset to the ECPD. He is so happy to have
Jozek and Officer McBride as part of his team. He stated that a better
person couldn't have been picked to handle the dog. Their personalities
work well together. He lastly stated that, for the future, he has big plans
for Jozek, Mike, and the Police Department. He hopes the community will see
that the ECPD are dedicated and committed to them. "The police in this
community are so dedicated and committed, which makes me so dedicated and
committed," McDonald said.
(view
pictures)
|
|
