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Rocco, a 2.5-year-old Belgium Malinois has already started working with Officer Kevin White, patrolling the streets. Rocco will be working as a dual-purpose dog, trained in tracking and apprehension, and firearms/explosives detection. He has already completed his patrol training and will be starting his eight-week firearms/explosives training program in April, in time to work the city's summer events, noted Lafayette Police Chief Ben Alldritt.
Alldritt expressed his gratitude to the supportive community members who have funded the program to bring Rocco in through generous donations.
Alldritt explained that most police dogs are trained in German. He and White were surprised then to find out on meeting Rocco, that, "In all the cosmic workings," said Alldritt, "somehow we got the one dog that actually responds to French commands."
It seems like an appropriate nod to General Lafayette, even if Rocco's handler now has to learn French.
Reach the reporter at:
Lamorinda Weekly, Moraga CA