Southeastern Police Department is dog gone excited about its newest officer

     HAMMOND – Southeastern Louisiana University’s Police Department has added a four-legged officer to its force. K-9 Jula is a two-year old German Shepherd from Poland that is certified in explosives detection.
     Jula is partnered with her handler, Sgt. Michelle Blanchard. Both Jula and Blanchard returned from Liberty Hills, Tex., last week after completing a three-week long certification course. Training will continue throughout the year and include safety sweeps for special events, sporting events, and any emergency situations that may arise.
     Southeastern President William S. Wainwright whole-heartedly supports the new K-9 Division.
     “We are excited about the addition of our first K-9 officer to Southeastern UPD,” said Wainwright. “Jula will be a great ambassador of safety, student support and officer training and development.”
     University Police Chief Michael Beckner agrees, stating that with the implementation of Southeastern’s K-9 Division, UPD is able to add another layer of protection to the Southeastern community.
     “Safety is our top priority, and K-9 Jula allows us to continue those efforts in a greater capacity,” he explained. “UPD offers this resource to our community partners, school districts, and local law enforcement agencies as well.”
     Beckner added that although Jula is socialized and loves getting pets and attention, she is a working dog; therefore, permission must be granted by her handler first before approaching her, since she may be in a working capacity.
     For more information, contact UPD at [email protected].