Back in 2023, I was introduced to Terry Bernardo and her pup Jenny. Terry spoke about how she was volunteering to train Jenny in a program called Puppies Behind Bars where volunteers and inmates in prison train dogs to be some of the best working dogs in the country. A couple of weeks later we received a visit from Terry and Jenny at my office then fast forward to this past July, we placed a former K-9 handler, 1st Sergeant Jeremy Yela, into the program. After a two-week intensive training program, 1st Sergeant Yela is back to work with our newest addition, a gorgeous yellow Labrador named Yoda.
1st Sergeant Yela, supervisor of the K-9 Unit, underwent the intensive two-week training session at Green Haven Correctional Facility to match with Yoda. The duo underwent thorough training to equip Yoda with over 50 commands. Yoda, having spent nearly two years with inmates, has shown remarkable skills in offering comfort and support to those in challenging situations. The program also offers the inmates a program to learn new skills and take those skills into the world when they are released which may aid in reducing recidivism.
The primary goal of this new K-9 Team is to provide much-needed emotional support to emergency services personnel in Orange County. By interacting with Yoda, these professionals can alleviate stress, particularly following traumatic incidents. It is important not only to maintain your physical health, but it is of equal importance to treat the mental well-being among law enforcement officers.
There are close to 200 law enforcement suicides each year. These professionals face greater than 50% higher risk of dying by suicide which underscores our critical need for comprehensive wellness programs and support structures within our field. Adding this additional component to our Wellness Unit aims to address these high suicide rates within our profession and reduce stress. It is concerning that the suicide rate among our colleagues exceeds the line-of-duty deaths each year. At the Orange County Sheriff’s Office, our focus is on reducing this alarming statistic and fostering peace, comfort, and wellness for those who diligently serve our community. I have seen too many in our field take their lives when we knew we could do more to help them.
For further details, individuals can reach out to First Sergeant Jeremy Yela at JYela@OrangeCountyGov.com or access updates on the Orange County Sheriff’s Office social media platforms. Join K-9 Yoda on Instagram at K9Yoda_OCSO to follow his journey of providing support and comfort to those in need.
If you need information on all the services the Orange County Sheriff’s Office offers please go to www.orangecountygov.com and click on the Sheriff’s Office link or contact us at ocnysheriff@orangecountygov.com.
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