Mueller Is Taking A Bite Out of Crime In Fullerton

A four legged member has been added to the Fullerton Police force.

“Officer” Mueller is a black and brown Malanois, and is paired with canine handler, Officer Johnathan Miller. Coincidentally, Miller originates from the German name, Mueller.

The purchase of the police dog was made possible by numerous donations and a noteworthy contribution from Retired Senior Volunteers, Bruce & Fran Mueller. Bruce Mueller passed away in December 2010, shortly after making his generous donation. K-9 Mueller is named in Bruce’s memory.

Before starting his extensive training, Officer Mueller came by the department to check out his new digs. He had quite the welcoming committee; Chief Sellers, Captain Bastreri and Sergeant Goodrich, as well as Fran Mueller and her family. As cameras came out to take the first picture of the newest "officer", he became camera shy and had to be coaxed out of the patrol car by Officer Miller, who explained that his partner was still getting used to his surroundings. Making that long trip from Germany is bound to give anyone “jet lag.”

Officers Miller and Mueller began their training late in February, which focused on tracking, apprehension, building searches, evidence recovery, and narcotic tracking. The handler also must learn the dog’s commands in the language in which he was trained: German. Speed and agility made Mueller a stand out when making the decision on which dog to select.

It has been a long journey for Mueller, who has recently been out perusing the streets of Fullerton, but he is well on his way to becoming a professional. The Fullerton Police Department is confident the canine’s abilities will give back to the community that supported his arrival. The Fullerton PD truly appreciates the generous donations, which was a vital part in bringing Mueller to Fullerton.

A fund has been set up and donations may be sent to the Fullerton Police Department at 237 W. Commonwealth Ave., Fullerton, CA 92832. Checks should be made payable to the City of Fullerton, with the words “Police K-9 Program” in the check notation box.

Further information about the K-9 fund-raising effort may be obtained by calling Sgt. Andrew Goodrich of the Fullerton Police Department at (714) 738-6838, or by email at AGoodrich@fullertonpd.org.

Source: Fullerton Police Department