K-9 Trainer Demonstrates West Bridgewater Chase Suspect Takedown
BILLERICA (CBS) - A dog may be man's best friend, except when he's not on your side. And that's how Massachusetts State Police got their man during a chase that started on Route 93 southbound and ended with the suspect's apprehension in West Bridgewater, taken down by a highly trained canine.
WBZ-TV's Beth Germano reports
Mike Wagreich, owner of K-9 East in Billerica, has been training police dogs for years, and says this was a textbook case. "It couldn't get any better. You don't want to see anyone get hurt, except the bad guy," he said.
The chase ended when 26-year-old William Monopoli ditched his pick-up and ran. "That's where the dog is utilized. He's a lot quicker than his handlers and there's no way you can outrun a dog," said Wagreich.
The dog surrounded Monopoli then lunged, taking a bite as trained, according to Wagreich, who says that's the dog's ultimate reward.
"Dogs are trained to bite strong and deep. It's utilizing the dog instead of a firearm, and it hurts," he said.
As quickly as Monopoli was taken down the dog was ordered to retreat, what's called "controlled aggression". Wagreich says it's "turning the dog on and off" on command. The dogs are an essential part of police work with their heightened senses, and departments look for dogs that have nerve, drive and focus. In this case the bite was just enough to get the job done.
