MILFORD, Conn. — Story by Maya Markowitz and Ella Franzman - Jonathan Law High School
Officer James Cox admits he will never be the most beloved member of the Milford Police Department. That role is reserved for his four-legged sidekick, Winston.
After 11 years of serving on the police department, Officer Cox proposed his idea to work with K-9’s, but not in the typical way. Cox joined forces with Puppies Behind Bars, a non-profit organization based out of New York. Trained from 8 weeks old, Winston is the first dog in Milford used for community engagement, peer support and victim services.
Winston regularly visits schools and local businesses which bridges the gap between young people and the police force. “Winston has had a huge impact on my life,” Cox said. “The idea is that by bringing Winston around children in the community now, they will grow to build relationships and feel comfortable around police officers.”
Thanks to Winston, many elementary students in Milford have become adjusted to having a police officer around their school on a regular basis. Michael Meglio, a fourth grade student at Orchard Hills Elementary School in Milford says that his initial concern of having a police officer and K-9 dog in school went away after he got to know Winston. “I thought he was gonna be big and he was gonna bite a little bit and now I feel more comfortable around him,” Meglio said. “He's just like another dog to me.”
Although the children were surprised by the appearance of a dog and police officer in their classroom. After some time, they grew to look forward to seeing Winston, and catching up with Officer Jimmy.
Orchard Hills Elementary School Principal Sarah Scionti says the program has helped students foster a positive relationship with law enforcement. “Now we're at the point where Winston comes in and they’re all saying ‘Hello Winston,’ ‘Hey Officer Jimmy,’” Scionti said. “They’ve become very comfortable and it's almost like he's a friend.”
Winston and officer Cox are not your typical police pair. Their day looks a little different. Working on food-reward, raising Winston is a full time job that doesn't end after 5 pm. Winston has become a source of stress alleviation for all members in the Milford community. Whether it be in the classroom or in the middle of the work day, many people look forward to seeing his furry face.
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