Clintonville adds K-9 to its police force

The Clintonville Police Department has announced the addition of its new K-9 police dog Chero (pronounced Kar-O) to the force. Chero is a purebred German shepherd from the Czech Republic and was purchased through the Fox-Tal Training Academy in Black Creek. Chero started training on Nov. 10 with his handler, Officer Chris Wendorf, and is being trained as a dual-purpose police dog that will be skilled in narcotics detection, as well as search and protection tactics. Chero will begin his patrol duties after completion of his first five-week phase of training on December 12th. After Chero has gained experience on the street, he and Wendorf will begin the second five weeks of the training in early spring. Chero will reside with Wendorf and his wife, Cheryl, in the city. The police department’s K-9 program operates on donations and fund raising efforts. Donations cans are placed at businesses throughout the community. Financial contributions can be dropped off or mailed to the Clintonville Police Department at 35 S. Clinton Ave., Clintonville, WI 54929.