VCU news

By Mike Frontiero
VCU School of Education

Beware of dog. That's the message the Virginia Commonwealth University Police Department is sending drug dealers and users on and around campus with the hiring of a four-legged officer with a keen sense of smell.

Strider, a 16-month old Golden Retriever, and K-9 handler Officer Marvin A. Wingo are sniffing for marijuana, cocaine and heroin during evening and early morning hours when most drug activity occurs.

They hit the streets July 14 after graduating from the Richmond Police Department's Canine Detector School. Hiring a drug dog was Wingo's idea. "I felt it would make us a better police department and VCU a safer place to come to school," said Wingo, who has worked for VCU Police for 16 years - most recently in the Special Operation Unit.

VCU Police will call on Strider when narcotics are suspected in parking areas, traffic stops, local bars and in the surrounding neighborhoods they routinely patrol. "VCU doesn't have a serious problem but drug crime is up in most cities, including Richmond," said Chief Willie B. Fuller. "We hired Strider to help deter illegal drug activity and keep our campus safe."

Neighboring police departments in Richmond, Henrico and Chesterfield could also request Strider's assistance in special operations. More courts are acknowledging that certified drug dogs can detect drugs better than humans, and Fuller expects the result will be more guilty pleas and fewer illegal drugs coming into the city.

Wingo and Strider travel together in an unmarked car. "We want to keep a low profile when working undercover," said Wingo. When they're off-duty, Strider goes home with Wingo, who's responsible for feeding, bathing and taking him to a veterinarian for immunizations and medical treatment.

They are required to attend a retraining course conducted by the Richmond Police Department three days a month, where drug dogs search for hidden narcotics in cars, buildings, boxes and people. As a reward, Wingo gives Strider a rolled-up towel to play with, which he enthusiastically accepts. "He lives for the towel," said Wingo. While friendly, Strider must focus on his work at all times, so people are not encouraged to pet him.

This is the first time in 25 years that VCU Police has hired a drug dog. The first one wasn't well-suited to the job, but Strider is different said Fuller. "Strider is very excited about his work and the city, and we're excited to have him as an extra enforcement tool at VCU."