The Hastings Police Department has purchased Rex, a patrol canine, from the Jefferson County Nebraska Sheriff's Department.

Rex is a 412-year-old German Shepherd who has three years of training and experience, according to a press release from the Hastings Police Department.

The release also gave the following information:

The department has been without a police service dog for about a year. Wojo, a 9-year-old Belgium Malinois, died unexpectedly in May 2007 after seven years of service.

Rex is assigned to officer Travis Beahm and will be used for patrol duties and drug investigations. Beahm is an experienced dog handler and has an exceptional record while serving as a dog handler in the United States Air Force. Rex has demonstrated excellent abilities and will be a valuable asset in combating our community's drug problems.

The Hastings Police Foundation will continue to raise funds for the purchase of a second police canine. Our plan is to have to have two police canines, a younger dog complimenting the older dog. Our next dog will also be used for community presentations and demonstrations.