The Watsonville Police department’s newest member is a 1-year old German shepherd named Axel. Five dogs were evaluated by the police department, and Axel was found to have the most drive and best temperament. He was purchased in February and attended basic patrol school for a month of training. Axel and his human partner are scheduled to work together on weekend night shifts. Axel’s roles include minimalizing danger to officers and the community, tracking lost children and adults and making appearances at local schools and businesses.