K9 Handler Officer Jimiyu Edwards
K9 Handler Officer Jimiyu Edwards' police career began in 2006 as part of the initial CWRU police department. Throughout his law enforcement career, he received training in special weapons and tactics (SWAT) and also became an instructor for ASP baton, pepper spray, and handcuffing. K9 Officer Edwards has also worked in the role as a Field Training Officer. In October of 2022, he became the university's first K-9 Handler.
Passions/Hobbies: Edwards enjoys training Spartie, fishing, boating, and music.
K9 Spartie
K9 Spartie is a Labrador Retriever born in Colombia on February 25, 2021. He came to the United States and began working with his handler, Officer Jimiyu Edwards of the Case Western Reserve Police Department, in October 2022. K9 Spartie is trained in explosive detection.
The university community will see him out and about with his handler as they patrol campus (on foot and in a patrol car), scan suspicious items and perform protective sweeps for large campus events, such as commencement and concerts.
While on duty, he loves training exercises. He enjoys meeting the CWRU community and educating them about the work he does. Off duty, K9 Spartie enjoys spending time with his family. He is always ready to play!
K9 Handler Chief Paul Owens
Paul Owens was named Case Western Reserve University's Interim Chief in March of 2022 and Chief of Police in October 2022. His police career began in 2006 as part of the initial police department. Since then, Owens has advanced through the ranks, serving as a corporal, training sergeant, sergeant and lieutenant.
Chief Owens holds a bachelor's degree in Justice Studies from Kent State University. He is a recent graduate of the 515th class of the School of Police Staff and Command of Northwestern University and is a graduate of the Cleveland Height's Police Academy.
Paul is a proud member of the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP), National Tactical Officers Association (NTOA), Ohio Tactical Officers Association (OTOA), International Law Enforcement Educators and Trainers (ILEETA) and Internal Association of Campus Law Enforcement (IACLEA).
Paul and his wife have been married for over 15 years and have 3 children. In addition to spending time with his family, he enjoys coaching his kids in the various sports they play.
K9 Maverick
K9 Maverick is a mixed breed of Australian Shepard and Bernese Mountain Dog born on November 19, 2022. He was rescued from Heaven to Earth Rescue in New Philadelphia, Ohio. He began working with his handler, Chief Owens of the Case Western Reserve University Police Department in April of 2023. K9 Maverick is trained in K9 Therapy.
K9 Maverick and his handler, Chief Owens, attended the Franklin County Sheriff Department's K9 Therapy School in Columbus, Ohio. K9 Maverick is also certified through the Alliance of Therapy Dogs.
You will see K9 Maverick at events on campus. To request K9 Maverick, email publicsafety@case.edu.
Lead Crisis Response Clinician Gwendolyn Austin
Gwendolyn Austin is a licensed clinician and a vital member of our Outreach, Assessments, Resources, and Response (OARR) Team. She plays a key role in providing compassionate, holistic support to individuals experiencing mental health crises, working to reduce stressors and connect them with appropriate resources. Gwen joined the Division of Public Safety in June 2023.
K9 Athena
K9 Athena is an English Labrador Retriever born on December 16, 2024. She began working alongside her handler Lead Crisis Response Clinician Gwendolyn Austin in February 2025. K9 Athena completed basic training in May 2025. She is scheduled to attend official K9 Crisis / Therapy Training in Columbus at the end of July 2025.
K9 Athena frequently joins her handler during Yoga for First Responder sessions, providing a calming and comforting presence. She is known for her gentle nature and strong bond with those around her, Athena is already making a positive impact.
Fun Fact: K9 Athena has a serious love for tennis balls and never turns down a chance to play.