Murphy, pictured, joined the Eau Claire Police Department as a therapy dog in 2022. An Australian Labradoodle, Murphy was popular at community events like National Night Out, Run with the Cops and even Country Jam USA – and "had a special gift," the ECPD wrote. (Photo via Facebook)

Four years ago, the Eau Claire Police Department (ECPD) welcomed a new furry face to its team: Murphy. The Labradoodle joined the force at just nine weeks old, in June 2022, with plenty of love to give – as was his duty.

On Tuesday, Oct. 13, the ECPD shared news of Murphy’s passing with the community. At just four years old, the therapy K-9 had made a profound impact, the ECPD stated in a media release.

As the ECPD told Volume One in 2022, Murphy was hand-selected for his special role. Blueberry Cottage Labradoodles, the Wisconsin breeder which donated Murphy to the local police department, has helped a number of other departments welcome their own therapy dogs too.

“Murphy had a special gift. He didn’t need words to make a difference. A wagging tail, a gentle nuzzle, or simply sitting beside someone during a difficult moment was often all it took to remind them that they were not alone,” the release stated.

“Murphy’s life reminds us that service takes many forms. Some serve with courage in the face of danger, while others serve through a gentle presence that brings peace when it is needed most."

EAU CLAIRE POLICE DEPARTMENT

OCT. 13 MEDIA RELEASE

Murphy enjoying time with kiddos at the 2025 end-of-school-year party at Robbins Elementary School. (Photo via Facebook)

Murphy and his handler, Deputy Chief Ben Frederick, pictured. (Photo via Facebook)

“He had a way of brightening even the hardest days and reminding us of the healing power of kindness, companionship, and unconditional love,” the ECPD shared.

In the 2025 ECPD annual report, humorous accomplishments of Murphy’s were shared: he had successfully enjoyed 650 treats, one of the ECPD Chief’s sandwiches, apprehended zero squirrels – and provided infinite cuddles.

“Murphy’s life reminds us that service takes many forms. Some serve with courage in the face of danger, while others serve through a gentle presence that brings peace when it is needed most. Murphy did both in his own special way, reminding us that compassion is an essential part of who we are and what we do.”

Murphy as a puppy, when Volume One (and the community) formally met him in 2022. (Photo by Sawyer Hoff)

The Eau Claire Police Department's K-9 unit includes Bolt and Manso, both trained in narcotics detection, tracking, apprehension and handler protection. In 2025, K-9s Bolt and Manso were deployed over 330 times. K-9 Murphy served as the ECPD's "comfort K-9," or therapy K-9.