Essex Sheriff welcomes new comfort K9 named for fallen deputy

MIDDLETON — The Essex County Sheriff’s Department is proud to welcome a new officer to our ranks whose primary responsibility is to provide comfort, care, and support to our dedicated staff.

K9 Pasky is the department’s new comfort K9. He is named for fallen Deputy Sheriff Anthony “Pasky” Pasquarello, who died of COVID-19 in December 2021.

“The passing of Deputy Pasquarello impacted this department greatly, especially our officers. He was a gentle being and always a friend to many,” Sheriff Kevin Coppinger said. “We thought it was just so fitting to name our comfort K9 in memory of Anthony.”

Deputy Pasquarello’s mother, Norine Pasquarello, agreed.

“I love that they named him Pasky. To me, it’s like a part of Anthony is still there,” Norine Pasquarello said. “My entire family thinks it’s absolutely wonderful.”

Pasky will be on shift at our three facilities with his partner, Officer Christian Guzman. Pasky’s primary duty will be to provide correctional officers and other staff a little puppy love to ease the stress of working in a correctional facility.

“Corrections is a demanding profession, requiring extreme dedication in one of the most challenging and stressful roles in law enforcement,” Coppinger said. “Promoting officer wellness is a top priority for our department, and K9 Pasky will serve an important role in caring for our men and women.”

In addition, Guzman and Pasky will be available to respond to local communities in times of need. The pair will also attend community events so that Pasky can share his goodwill with the fine people of Essex County.

“K9 Pasky’s purpose is to provide support and affection while positively improving the overall well-being of all those around him,” Guzman said. “He loves his job judging by his ever-present big, goofy smile, and the people here look forward to him making his rounds. It’s amazing to see how a little love from a dog can brighten someone’s whole day.”

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