Bristol Police Welcome Fuzzy New Recruit

BRISTOL, RI —The Bristol Police Department welcomed its newest, and smallest, officer to the force on Monday. Brody the Labrador puppy, dozing lightly on the desk, was sworn in by Chief Kevin Lynch. Patrolman Keith Medeiros, Brody's partner, took the oath on his behalf.

Over the next year, Brody will train to become a comfort and therapy dog for the town. He will work with Medeiros, the school resource officer for the town. He was donated to the department by an organization in New Hampshire.

Chief Lynch said one of his main goals after taking the position was to introduce a K9 to the department. Medeiros' proposal was selected in part because it is the first police comfort and therapy dog program in Bristol, as well as the first to partner with the school department.

I knew that we had a winning formula for the town," the chief said. "I'm extremely thrilled that it is going to be in partnership with our school system.

With all Rhode Island schools are currently closed due to the new coronavirus, Lynch said Brody will be something nice for students to look forward to upon their return to school.

"Brody and Officer Medeiros can't wait to meet all the schoolchildren!" Chief Lynch said. "He's going to be a superstar here in Bristol, I guarantee it."

Brody's swearing-in ceremony can be watched in full below.