PORT ARTHUR, Texas — The Port Arthur Police Department is welcoming a new furry face to the force.
Ranger, a 10-month-old German Shepherd, is the newest addition to the department. He is a rescue pup and will be used to help officers crack down on crime.
A well-known Southeast Texas dog trainer donated Ranger to the city at a Tuesday morning city council meeting. The trainer saw Ranger had the skills to become a police dog.
"Today is another great day in the City of Port Arthur because we now have a canine that was donated to us by a nice young lady out of Beaumont," Port Arthur Police Chief Tim Duriso said. "We are expecting great things from Ranger."
Ranger is being sent to LAK9, where he will attend a two-week police dog training course.
"Ranger is in the K9 academy in Louisiana waiting for his training to go over there so they can train together," Chief Duriso said.
The training will get Ranger ready to serve his community. Once it is completed, Ranger will be the Port Arthur Police Department's fifth K9.
Upon his return to Southeast Texas, Ranger and his partner will start their duties protecting the citizens.
“He is going to be one of our drug detection dogs, and if there is a traffic stop where the officer suspects there is some drugs in the vehicle, then they'll call Ranger over,” Chief Duriso said. “And Ranger will perform his duties.”
No matter what job he is assigned to, Ranger will be a working dog. This means those wanting to pet him will have to ask before they do, no matter how cute he looks.
"He is not considered a pet," Chief Duriso said. "He is going to be Officer Jessup's partner. So if you see Ranger out and about, we are asking people not to approach the dog or touch it, since you will need permission from the handler before you can touch them."
Once Ranger is back from training, he will get a bulletproof vest to keep him safe while fighting crime.
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