Dec 19, 2014 2 min read

When Washington police Officer Matthew Karlowsky mentioned to his friends Eric and Jennifer Beiswenger over the summer he wanted to get his K-9 partner, Golem, a vest, the Cecil Township couple decided to help.

The Beiswengers, owners of Anytime Fitness at The Old Mill in South Strabane Township, purchased the $1,000 vest to protect the German shepherd.

“We didn’t want the same thing to happen to Golem as happened to Rocco, the police dog in Pittsburgh,” Eric Beiswenger said. “We are proud that we were able to help Matt and Golem.”

John Lewis Rush, 22, of Pittsburgh, was found guilty earlier this week by a jury in Allegheny County of torturing or harming a police animal and other charges. He stabbed the K-9 unit dog, Rocco, and assaulted four police officers trying to arrest him on warrants earlier this year. Rocco was not wearing a protective vest and died of injuries to his kidney and spinal cord. Rocco’s death triggered efforts to provide police dogs with protective vests.

“The vest is clearly for his safety,” Karlowsky said. “It is stab and bullet resistant and protects the vital areas on his body and reduces the risk of injury.

“Golem is an invaluable tool for the department, and this helps protect our investment. You can replace equipment like a Taser. But you can’t replace a good police dog that easily.”

The Czech Republic-born Golem, who will turn 2 in March, joined the department after he and Karlowsky completed training in May. Golem is trained not only in apprehension but narcotics detection. He was purchased through donations by the community as well as a $10,000 donation from the Ben Roethlisberger Foundation. Karlowsky said Golem was part of several drug arrests and money seizures, as well as apprehension of suspects.

“I think just his presence is a deterrent,” Karlowsky said. “Suspects see him and think twice about running.”

While the dog may be part of the city’s police department, Karlowsky said they have gone to other communities such as McDonald and California and South and North Strabane townships if assistance is needed, even if the two are not on duty.

“It keeps me busy, but I love it,” Karlowsky said.