WAUWATOSA — In the wake of a mass shooting at Mayfair Mall that left eight people injured, specially trained canines will now be patrolling the mall with security officers.
A spokesperson for Brookfield Properties, the owner of the mall, stated that the program, called Vapor Wake Public Safety Canine Detection Program, launches Wednesday. It is in partnership with Auburn University and its bomb and firearm detection efforts.
The canines are trained to detect firearms on visitors at the mall.
"The VWK9 program demonstrates our ongoing commitment to provide a safe, peaceful and inclusive environment for everyone. Firearms and weapons are strictly prohibited within Mayfair and the launch of the VWK9 program allows trained security professionals to identify anyone in violation of this important policy," senior general manager of Mayfair, Chris Jaeger, said in a statement.
Chief of Police at the Wauwatosa Police Department, Chief Barry Weber, added in the statement that "We support this innovative detection approach and will continue supporting the shopping center’s safety needs to help enforce a safe, family-friendly shopping environment.”
As TMJ4 News reported, eight people were shot and injured near the Macy's at Mayfair Mall on Nov. 20. Following a manhunt, law enforcement arrested a 15-year-old boy and two others in connection to the shooting.
The 15-year-old is facing nearly a dozen counts, though he has not been charged as an adult in Milwaukee County Court.
