BRIGHTON (WWJ) - The Huron-Clinton Metroparks Police Department has officially sworn in its first furry, four-legged officer.
Officer Parks, a 1-year-old yellow Labrador Retriever, joined the Metroparks police force back in February and on Thursday, he was awarded his training diploma and sworn into the department as its first official police dog.
Parks proudly raised his right paw as Lieutenant David Smith completed the official swearing in in front of the Metroparks Board of Commissioners, staff, members of the public and even members of Parks' human family.
In his new position, Parks will be an ambassador for the Metroparks and foster positive interactions with the police department, but that's not his only job. Parks and his handler, Officer Tom Green, recently attended training where Parks became certified in tracking and explosives detection. He also graduated first in his class for obedience.
Parks' training and status allows him to work in combination with his handler to conduct police activities. The courts recognize this for criminal prosecution and civil litigation purposes. He is also required to receive additional training on a regular basis to maintain this status. He will also sometimes travel to assist other police departments when a need for his special services arises.