UTC has welcomed its first Chief Canine Officer, a 6-year-old German Shorthaired Pointer named Gunther (aka Gunny). Formerly a vapor wake dog, he now joins UTC Police Chief Sean O’Brien on campus several times per week to engage students and support campus life. His presence has already sparked more interaction and connection between students and…
Retired K-9 Gunny designated as first UTC chief canine officer
Gunny, a retired German shorthaired-pointer K-9, has been named UTC’s first Chief Canine Officer in an honorary role. Formerly trained in Vapor Wake detection, he’s credited with over 150 firearms recoveries during his law enforcement career. After retiring in late 2023 due to health concerns, Gunny now accompanies UTC Police Chief Sean O’Brien on campus,…
How law enforcement at UTC used AI technology when responding to a false active shooter call
UTC police and partner agencies used artificial intelligence technology during last week’s false active shooter report on campus. The university’s 900-camera security network includes about 200 units with Volt AI, which can detect weapons, fights, fires, and more. Director of Public Safety Brett Fuchs said the system showed no weapon before officers entered the library,…
Tragedy in Chattanooga and an Officer’s Journey to Healing – Tips, Tactics, Tools Ep 56
In this powerful episode, Chief Sean O’Brien of the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga Police Department shares his remarkable journey through decades in law enforcement, including an account of the July 16, 2015 terrorist attack in Chattanooga. From his first officer-involved shooting in 1994 to leading K9 units, interdiction operations, and active shooter response training,…