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Member of WVU Police K-9 department receives award

Ginger

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A furry member of the West Virginia University Police Department has been recognized for her considerable service to the University and the state of West Virginia.

Adirondac Lady Mountaineer, a 5-year-old Golden Retriever otherwise known as “Ginger,” received a commendation from the Governor’s office and the American Kennel Club as a 2016 K-9 of Excellence.

As a specialist in Chemical Explosives Detection, Ginger is responsible for checking everything from unattended bags and luggage at state government events, to clearing Milan Puskar Stadium before Mountaineer football games.

Ginger, along with her handler Lt. Joshua Cook, serves as a community ambassador by visiting schools and being with children.

The WVU Police K-9 unit was launched with a proactive focus on Explosives Detection and Terrorism Prevention, in response to ongoing concerns with emergency preparedness following the events of September 11, 2001. Off duty, all police K-9’s live with their assigned handlers and are an integral part of their families.

-WVU-

nm/01/25/17

CONTACT: Amber Kelley, University Police
304.293.3136; Amber.Kelley@mail.wvu.edu

Follow @WVUToday on Twitter.