Farmington Police Dog Garners Special Gift After Tragedy

FARMINGTON, CT — Thanks to two special people working for a special organization, the Farmington Police Department's facility dog, Nash, is well protected.

The organization is the Plainville-based nonprofit Lexi's Journey Inc., a nonprofit that raises funds for all sorts of community causes.

It was founded a few years ago by Deborah Zinzalet and her young daughter Alexis "Lexi" Charbonneau, who suffers from osteogenesis imperfecta or brittle bones disease.

The affliction makes Charbonneau, who is in her early 20s, susceptible to broken bones and she must use a wheelchair to get around.

Sadly, Charbonneau's mother — Zinzalet — died unexpectedly on Aug. 13.

Despite undergoing a personal tragedy, Charbonneau was on hand last week to present a protective vest for Nash to his handler, FPD Officer Tony Ruggiero.

In a ceremony hosted by WFSB and local radio personality Renee DeNino, Ruggiero presented Charbonneau with a plaque to show the department appreciation of her efforts.

To see photos of the ceremony, click on this link.