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OZ Lifting Products LLC, a manufacturer of davit cranes and industrial lifting equipment, has committed to funding the training of a new police dog annually through the Code Blue K9 program.
The first sponsored dog will serve the City of New Hampton Police Department in Iowa starting next year.
The initiative goes beyond financial support, with OZ Lifting allowing dog trainer Trace Erickson to use an out-building at its new 40,000-square-foot facility.
Erickson, a former law enforcement officer, aims to run two 13-week training programs annually, preparing police dogs for duties such as narcotics detection, search and rescue and patrol support.
“I met Trace at our local YMCA. As he told me, there are many police departments that would love to have a dog on staff but can’t afford the upfront cost. My wife, Jane, and I felt this is a way to give back to a community,” Steve Napieralski, president at OZ Lifting said.
“If there is a police department in a city looking for a dog, we ask that they send a written request outlining how they will use the animal in their community. If multiple departments are looking, we will select which department gets the dog,”
New Hampton Police Chief Conrad Rosendahl described the value of the upcoming K9. The department previously lost its police dog and now seeks to enhance officer safety and patrol effectiveness, especially along a corridor known for illegal drug activity.
The K9 will also support search and rescue efforts in local schools, parks and businesses while providing backup for solo officers.
Adding a personal touch, all dogs funded by OZ Lifting will have “OZ” incorporated into their names, such as “Ozzie,” creating a lasting connection between the company and the communities it serves.
“This is a way to create a personal connection between the company and the communities it serves, making the program memorable and unique,” Napieralski said.
“Police dogs represent not only a safer alternative in law enforcement but also a bridge between police forces and the public,” he continued.
“This initiative aligns with our core values of reliability, trust and service, both in business and in our community. If a suspect sees a K9 present, they are less likely to use force against an officer or flee — they will safely cooperate. K9s are also the only use of force that can be recalled immediately, causing no harm. If an officer deploys a gun, taser, etc., they cannot stop once the trigger is pulled.”
The Napieralskis’ personal ties to public service, including family members who served as police officers and firefighters, add another layer of meaning to the program.
Additionally, many of OZ Lifting’s 25 employees are dog owners, making the initiative resonate deeply within the company.
This program continues OZ Lifting’s tradition of community support. In 2023, the company donated over $10,000 to local organizations, including the American Legion, Habitat for Humanity and the Winona Area Humane Society, while also funding youth sports, schools and civic groups.
By funding police K9 training, OZ Lifting reaffirms its commitment to public safety and community development, ensuring that law enforcement agencies have the tools needed to protect and serve effectively.
