Ms Whalen, 

After reading the attached statement from NWPD, and letter from America's Vet Dogs, I felt not satisfaction in regards to how the situation was handled. Although, the police department states an apology was given, this does not suffice. Also, the handing out of information about guide dogs to the police staff is not sufficient training. I feel that all employees need specialized training on how to handle and understand those with disabilities, and how service/guide animals are a vital element in the functionality of those living with the disability. There are far too many cases of this type of abuse. 

I am a disabled American citizen and have a dog that is not certified as a service animal. It's okay because if I need him to be, I will go forward with the proper avenues. For now, he keeps me company and helps me at home. Knowing how it feels to be disabled, this case hit home very strongly. Also, seeing first hand what wartime PTSD is like from living with a former soldier, I am repulsed by the officers actions. I refuse to accept the statement issued by North Wildwood Police Department as a resolution. There are many petitions regarding this and we will not stop using our right to freedom of speech. I hope the PD can come up with a better way to make this right. I also hope that the reconsider training their staff in understanding the disabled, both physically and mentally. But, also provide more training on tact and humanity. If the police ever wonder why there is so much distrust from the people, they can look at themselves in the mirror. These isolated incidents make the entire department look bad. What is that phrase? Guilty by association.

Signed, 

Jennifer Thorpe - Disable Citizen