NEWPORT — Newport Police Officer Joshua Lillis and K-9 Ozzy were recently named the 2020 Team of the Year by the Vermont Police Canines Association.
The department says the Newport Police K-9 Unit was deployed 153 times in 2020 for a variety of responses, including supporting de-escalation efforts, tracking suspects, and aiding in investigations.
“I am tremendously proud of Officer Lillis and K-9 Ozzy’s award and accomplishments,” Chief Bingham said.
Bingham says on multiple occasions Ozzy’s presence at a scene supported their attempts at de-escalation without the use of force.
He says Ozzy’s presence helped to mitigate potential violence against officers and interrupted violent incidents in progress.
Ozzy has even supported the investigation of multiple armed robberies by tracking suspects and helping officers locate and charge them.
In 2020, Ozzy helped officers locate 631 bags of heroin or fentanyl in Newport.
“The hard work, training, and endless dedication by both of them have shown through the success they have had on patrol,” Bingham said. “Their reputation throughout our community and the state of Vermont is exceptional and they have set the bar high for what it takes to be an elite K-9 Team.”
