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Morrisville police introduce therapy dog Linus to support officer wellness and community outreach
Summary
Chief Justin Roser introduced Linus, a donated therapy dog, and handler Derek Smith. Roser said the program, supported by the department’s wellness committee and partner agencies, will focus first on officer wellness and may expand to community and cross-departmental uses.
Morrisville — The police department on May 26 introduced Linus, a therapy dog intended to support officer wellness and broader community outreach.
Chief Justin Roser told the council that Linus and handler Derek Smith join the department after a donation of the dog and training. Roser said the wellness committee and Lieutenant Rosen Crrance led the effort and the department is partnering with nearby agencies (including the Wake County Sheriff’s Office) to build handler experience and program usage.
"One of those is ensuring that we're taking care of officer wellness," Roser said. "Part of that is their mental health. And part of that is Linus here is a therapy dog. That's a program that has been implemented across the country." He said the program began through internal visioning, and the donated training reduced start-up costs.
Council members responded positively and discussed future uses. Council member Johnson asked whether rescue dogs could be included in the future; Roser said there is no breed requirement but the dog must have the appropriate temperament and training. Council member Sparius Johnson suggested classroom and senior-center programming, and others requested a photo opportunity for council and staff.
Next steps: The department will continue training and coordinate with partner agencies to grow the program internally and explore community uses as the dog and handler gain experience.
