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Culver City News
December 31, 2009 Police Officers Give Gift of New Puppy Dear Editor, Police officers are often the first to arrive at emergencies and soon become participants as tragedies unfold before them. It is very hard to remain unemotional and professionally detached when these tragedies involve children and their pets. It is especially hard around the holidays. On Dec. 2, Tommy, an adult Doberman pinscher, was struck by a hit-and-run driver in the 4100 block of Madison Avenue. The accident occurred at about 6:30 p.m. when Tommy broke free from the grasp of his 8-year-old master. The female driver of the champagne-colored Ford SUV never stopped and is still being sought by the Culver City Police Department. Tommy was gravely injured and was later put to sleep by local veterinarians. This incident was originally reported in the Culver City News on Dec. 10. Responding officers Sgt. Mike Webb, Sgt. Larry Moroso and Officer Jesse Butler were immediately at the scene, along with a crowd of concerned neighbors. The frightened dog was difficult to handle, and it took the combined efforts of all to get the dog safely secured in the police department’s Animal Services vehicle. Tommy’s family eventually arrived at the veterinarian’s office and made the very difficult decision to put Tommy to sleep. News of the event quickly spread within the police department. Many of the officers were saddened by the story and could easily empathize with the emotions of the little boy and the decision to put his dog down. Officer Lance Ordin was especially moved and came up with the idea to purchase a Doberman puppy and donate it to the family. In hopes of providing some comfort for the holidays Sgt. Webb contacted the family and arranged to have the puppy delivered to the family in time for Christmas. While Tommy can never be replaced, the Culver City Police Department hopes that a new puppy might ease some of the family’s grief. Lt. Dean Williams Culver City Police Department |