FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Brian Spector 
954-392-2082

Johnson Street Dog Park to be Renamed in Memory of Pembroke Pines Police Officer

Pembroke Pines, FL  (May 23, 2018) -- The Johnson Street Dog Park is being renamed to honor a Pembroke Pines Police Officer. A ribbon cutting ceremony and dog park dedication for Pembroke Pines K-9 Officer Craig Rupp will take place on Saturday, June 2, 2018 at 10 a.m. at 9751 Johnson Street.  The Craig Rupp Dog Park Dedication came about when the City Commission voted last year to honor Officer Rupp who died on June 1, 2017.
 
Officer Rupp joined the agency at 20 years of age, making him the youngest recruit to work for the Pembroke Pines Police Department at that time.  His Law Enforcement approach was one that focused on community policing, and he was well known in the neighborhoods that he patrolled frequently.
 
He had retired from the Pembroke Pines Police Department after 25+ years of service the year prior, but stayed involved with the department as a reserve police officer.  Officer Rupp was 46 and survived by his wife, Erika and two daughters, Madison and Olivia.  He worked as a K-9 Officer and Trainer for more than a decade with his canine partners Falco and Bullit.
 
This newly renovated park is a well-known place for pets and their owners to gather and play.  There are also benches for owners to watch and relax. 
 
Light refreshments will follow the Dedication ceremony and the public is welcome to attend. For more information, contact the Special Events Office at 954-392-2116.

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