STERLING, Ill. (WLS) -- A police department in western Illinois just got a furry new officer and she's already the most popular member of the force.
Brinkley is a 2-month-old puppy who's not your average police K9. She's being trained as a "comfort" dog, to connect with the community during stressful times, visit schools and be a goodwill ambassador.
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Brinkley will also be at the station to help calm the victims of crime and those who just need the joys that only a loving pet can bring.
"She will be a dog that you can come up and hug and that you can interact with a lot," Officer Niki Diehl said.
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Brinkley will also be at Sterling Police Department for morale, to help officers dealing with burnout and tragic situations.