The St. Clair Shores Police welcomes a very special officer into the department. Ozzie, the newest K9 Officer, is joining the force after completing three months of training.
Ozzie is a German Shepherd trained in narcotics detection, tracking lost/missing people, and criminal apprehension. He’s also trained to protect his handler, six-year veteran Officer Mitch Morano. Officer Morano and K9 Ozzie started training with the department in October in preparation for Officer Price’s and K9 Maz’s retirement in early November.
Morano has been with the department for six years and this is his first K9 partner. However, he is well-versed in handling dogs, with a civilian German Shepherd acting as Ozzie’s sibling at home.
K9 officers, also known as police dogs, have an incredible sense of smell. Police departments utilize these officers to help track down missing or wanted people, as well as help locate evidence and illegal substances.
They also serve as great community ambassadors, bridging the police with everyday citizens for a more amicable relationship.
Ozzie, meaning “Strength of God” in German, was born in Jessen, Germany and met Morano only three days after arriving in the states. If you see K9 Ozzie out on the road, feel free to check in with Officer Morano to see if Ozzie is up for a hello and some well-deserved love.