Aspen the New Police Dog Introduced in Woonsocket

WOONSOCKET, RI — The newest member of the Woonsocket P.D. is 3 years old and a female German Shepherd named Aspen. She and her handler, K-9 Officer Jason Berthelette met the press on Monday at the 3 p.m. news conference.

Police Chief Thomas Oates introduced the crime fighting duo when he announced the launch of the Woonsocket Police Department’s new K-9 unit.

“I made a commitment to this community." the chief said, "when I was appointed to this position and I am determined to do anything in my power to make this department the best it can be.”

Adding a K-9 unit will help officers conduct narcotics searches, investigate crime scenes and catch suspects.

Aspen's already shown her fellow officers she's the right stuff.

"Already, the K-9 unit has successfully contributed to the apprehension of a suspect wanted for arrest and the discovery of a weapon discarded while in pursuit of another suspect wanted for arrest," the chief said.

“Chief Oates has wasted no time in implementing new initiatives that serve to build upon the already great law enforcement efforts our department consistently performs,” added Mayor Lisa Baldelli-Hunt. “This would not be possible without the contributions of Officer Berthelette, who has gone above and beyond to develop the skills necessary to perform and to personally care for Aspen.”

Berthelette, an 11-year veteran of the department, has been certified as a K-9 handler and has undergone extensive training over the past 10 years.

Funding for WPD’s new unit was supplemented through generous contributions from members of the community including Woonsocket Rotary Club, Inferno Audio, Sunrise Pizza and Vested Interests in Canines Inc.