West Virginia University Police’s Explosives K-9 has been recognized nationally by the American Kennel Club’s ACE awards for Canine Excellence in Law Enforcement.

Bella, a 4-year-old golden retriever who is trained in explosives detection, was nominated and selected as a finalist. To qualify, the purebred dog must be AKC registered or an AKC recognized breed and have performed an exemplary act, whether large or seemingly small, that has significantly benefited a community or individual.

Bella is the only explosives detection dog at West Virginia University and one of just a few in Northern West Virginia. Bella’s abilities are simply incredible. She is responsible for inspecting everything from cars, packages, luggage, buildings, houses, buses, airplanes, all sporting events, concerts, bomb threats, to anything suspicious that may arise.

Since there are no professional sports teams in West Virginia, the largest events in the state are WVU football games attended by more than 60,000 people. Bella’s amazing nose and skills assure that everyone at the event has a safe and enjoyable experience.

Bella’s abilities do not just end there. Bella is very friendly to everyone, especially children. She often accompanies her handler and partner Officer J Cook to local school visits, speaking about safety and demonstrating her remarkable abilities. Officer Cook and Bella also often walk throughout campus to visit with various college students and staff.

“Bella is an excellent ambassador for our police department and our state, and I am extremely honored that Bella has been recognized nationally as a runner up for the ACE awards,” Chief Bob Roberts said.

Bella was presented with a certificate and bronze medal from the American Kennel Club.

-WVU-

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