Oshkosh PD adds successor therapy dog following K9 Magic’s tragic passing
OSHKOSH, Wis. (WFRV) – The Oshkosh Police Department is welcoming therapy dog K9 Gema to the force, who follows in the paw prints of K9 Magic who tragically passed away in late 2023.
K9 Gema, who was professionally trained through the Journey Together program, is a 2-year-old female Yellow Labrador who will provide emotional support to both members of our community and Officers. Gema will be paired with Behavioral Health Officer Scott Sopata.
Sopata responds to behavioral health-related calls, and highly sensitive/emotional calls for service, as well as being used to support employees of the Oshkosh Police Department after Critical Incidents.
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- K9 Gema, Oshkosh Police Department
- Behavioral Health Officer Scott Sopata and K9 Gema, Oshkosh Police Department
- Chief Dean Smith and K9 Gema, Oshkosh Police Department
“Gema’s love, kindness, and support will bring a sense of calm to high-stress situations and will be an important asset to both the Department and the City of Oshkosh,” a release from the Oshkosh PD states.
I was very excited to hear that the City of Oshkosh and our Police Department wanted our facility dog program to continue. Magic opened so many doors of success and I know that Gema will continue that legacy while this program continues to grow. It was an honor to work with Journey Together, their trainers, and volunteers during this successor dog process.
Behavioral Health Officer Scott Sopata
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The release notes Oshkosh PD’s sentiment towards mental health wellness, stating that it is a priority for both its employees and community members.
“We are very excited to welcome K9 Gema to our team. She will continue the great work that K9 Magic started and will be a blessing to our community,” said Chief Dean Smith. “We are very thankful that Journey Together donated K9 Gema to our Behavioral Health Team.”
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