Atlas the K-9: Helping keep the community of Superior safe
July 2023 – Cenovus Energy’s Superior Refinery in Wisconsin, through a partnership with the Northland K-9 Foundation, has recently helped the Superior Police Department welcome a new team member to its ranks: Atlas – the German Shepherd.
As one of two K-9s in the department, Atlas has a big role in helping keep the community of Superior safe. K-9s help track suspects, perform search and rescue, and search for narcotics, weapons, and other critical evidence. They also go into many dangerous situations to help protect their human partners from harm.
“Last fall, we found out there was a need for a new K-9 at the Superior Police Department, and as part of our commitment to helping build healthy and safe communities, we thought this would be a great opportunity,” explains Matt Gunn, Superior Refinery General Manager. “The Superior Refinery has a long history of working with the local police department. In the past we’ve supported the department through the purchase of crucial equipment and safety gear, and we’re continuing our support by helping cover the costs of onboarding and training Atlas.”
Atlas and his handler, Officer Charles Mahlen, spent four months in St. Paul, Minnesota for obedience, scent and apprehension training. The newest recruit graduated at the end of May and is now on active duty in Superior.
“In the years to come, Officer Mahlen and K-9 Atlas will help make our community safer, help open up lines of communications with our public and hopefully build trust and confidence in our police department through their daily activities, presence at special events and demonstrations throughout our community,” shares Chief Nicholas Alexander of the Superior Police Department. “Cenovus continues to be a great corporate citizen and one that looks for ways to help support the local community and we are very grateful for their incredible support.”
