NEWPORT BEACH : Public Introduced to Canine Officer Ado

The city’s newest and youngest cop looked a little star-struck Monday as police officials introduced the 2-year-old German shepherd to the public.

Ado, who was imported to Newport Beach from the Czech Republic earlier this year, approached well-wishers cautiously at first during a welcoming ceremony in front of the police station.

But within a few minutes, the 93-pound, caramel-and-black dog was at ease, running his wet tongue across the face of one man and poking his snout playfully at snapping cameras.

Ado replaces Dingo, whose death last year prompted police to hold an elaborate funeral service complete with emotional eulogies. Dingo served on the force for six years and died at age 10 of complications from leg surgery.

For the last two months, Ado and his partner, Officer Tom Weizoerick, have been training. Weizoerick said a bond immediately developed between the pair.

“He was looking for someone to care for him,” said Weizoerick, who got to know Ado by feeding him and taking him for walks on the beach. “He took to me right away.”

The partners will work a regular patrol beat. They will cruise the streets in a four-wheel-drive police vehicle equipped with a special door that the officer can open by pressing a button on his utility belt. The device is designed to let the dog out of the vehicle if the officer needs help.

Weizoerick said he loves dogs and has long wanted to work in the police K-9 program.

“They are so loyal and truthful,” he said. “I know I’d trust (Ado) more than a regular officer.”

Ado is one of three police dogs in the department. They are used to sniff out drugs, locate suspects in large buildings and work with children.

“We really like what the dogs bring to the department in terms of resources,” said Police Chief Robert J. McDonell.

Ado cost about $6,000, including training fees. Donations from the public paid for the dog as well as another German shepherd, which is scheduled to join the department when 10-year-old Hondo retires in May.

“Their abilities are unbelievable,” Weizoerick said. “They have incredible senses, and they work so fast.”