02-14-2022 Council Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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6 Community Service Dog Similar to the year prior, Xerxes contact with many was severely hindered due to issues pertaining to COVID-19. Normal routines were still impacted for him, but he would lend a hand when he could. By the summer months, Xerxes was able to get back to a bit of a routine in his community visits. He frequented the Orono Dog Park, making more connections with both humans and canines. Multiple times a week he would pay outdoor visits to our senior centers, park, and playgrounds. This allows for simple conversations that our officers can have with community members, which help tremendously in furthering their confidence with the Orono Police Department. Many police departments across Minnesota still contact Orono as a leading agency that has integrated a Community Service/Therapy type dog into their department ranks. Xerxes’ impact is a difficult one to quantify as a statistic. As with much in law enforcement, you rarely hear of our successes. We are fortunate to have our donors that help support this program and keep it something organic and growing. Xerxes primary handler was recently assigned to investigations where there is potential for a new set of roles and persons to have impact with. This new shift work for Xerxes opens up more opportunities for his other handlers to continue in generating positive police contacts in our schools and communities. Xerxes can be found most days perched by the front door of the police department, greeting anyone who should come to our doors. Body Worn Cameras In July 2021, the Orono Police Department implemented the use of body worn cameras. These are small devices that record interactions between law enforcement and citizen contacts. There are several benefits regarding the use of these recording devices, some of which include increased public confidence in policing, a reduction of complaints and allegations made against police officers, and evidentiary value.