Mary Alice Reporting – The New Philadelphia Police Department is asking for community support after one of their funds saw a drastic, unforeseen depletion.
There was an unexpected departure of a K9 handler and his partner, which created the need to swiftly respond.
K9 Officer Bradley Geist explains they got a new handler and partner, which was costly.
“We recently had a previous handler who has retired and their K9 partner as well has retired, and because it was short notice, we unfortunately had to deplete our current fund in order to fill the vacancy that included the purchase of a new dog sending the handler through training, and any equipment.”
With little money in the fund, the department has also discovered the previous handler’s cruiser will need repairs as there are issues with the heat alarm and deployment system, which is vital for the safety and effectiveness of the K9 itself.
Geist adds that there is a need for two K9 units within the city.
“Because of the growing drug and narcotic’s epidemic within the community. They are very effective in helping us accomplish that [eradication] goal. Anybody who’d be willing to support us, we’d be greatly appreciative. We don’t exist without the members of the community and the businesses that help us thrive.”
This fund is reliant upon community donations, and they are asking for help in building up the account to help off-set these unexpected expenditures.
Anyone wishing to make a contribution can contact Geist at the New Philadelphia Police Department’s non-emergency number, 330-343-4488. He, along with Officer James Miller, or Chief Tessa Pohovey will be able to assist anyone wishing to make a contribution or those with questions.
Copyright WTUZ Radio Inc., 2023