Milk-Bone & Kroger Donate $5,000 for New Police Dog
September 4, 2008 - The Metro Police Department will be adding an additional police dog to its ranks thanks to the generosity of Milk-Bone and Kroger.
As part of the Milk-Bone Canine Heroes Program, the two entities today presented Chief Ronal Serpas with a $5,000 check to be used to purchase a police dog. The presentation took place outside the Hermitage Kroger on Old Hickory Boulevard.
“I am sincerely grateful to Milk-Bone and Kroger for recognizing the importance of our Canine Unit to Nashville’s safety,” Chief Serpas said. “These animals are critical in the apprehension of dangerous criminals, as well as in the detection of narcotics and explosives that threaten our neighborhoods. I am very proud to say that during the past five years, our canine partners have been directly responsible for the recovery of more than $1 million in illicit cash, $30 million worth of illegal narcotics, and the apprehension of numerous criminal suspects.”
A group of 4th graders from Dotson Elementary School were selected to attend today’s celebration based on essays they had written regarding the naming of the new dog. Cody Klein’s essay, in which he suggested the name “Tornado,” was judged the best. Kentanna Hayes’ essay, in which she suggested the name “Kojak,” was the runner-up. The students were treated to a drug detection, agility, and obedience demonstration by several members of the police department’s canine team.
The Metro police department presently has 25 dogs, many of which are cross-trained in more than one specialty. The new dog, which is likely to come from Holland or Czechoslovakia, will initially be trained in drug detection. The dog will be a German Shepherd or Belgian Malinois.
Chief Ronal Serpas is presented a $5,000 check by (l-r) Justin Webb of Kroger, Diane Bohman of Milk-Bone, and Dennis Reeves of Kroger.
Chief Serpas congratulates essay winners Ketanna Hayes and Cody Klein from Dotson Elementary School.
Chief Serpas speaks of the tremendous importance of the Canine Unit to Nashville's safety.
Officer Devery Moses and his partner Sniper conduct an explosive detection exercise.
Dotson Elementary School students and Kroger customers watch the demonstration.
Officer Joe Shelton and his partner Memphis demonstrate Memphis' keen obedience to Shelton's voice and hand signals.