The Lake View Police Department was approved for its request to purchase a full-time labrador retriever for a K9 officer. The department started raising funds in November last year to see if there was any community interest in having this resource. Police Officer George Athan spoke to the council during Monday’s meeting, ensuring the department will have the funding to purchase and continue training for the dog, as the department didn’t want to cause the city any financial strain.
Athan says 90 percent of the crimes involve drugs, and having a K9 officer would assist in narcotic searches and as a tracker for people and evidence recovery. Athan says the labrador retriever was the breed of choice due to its more friendly demeanor.
Once all funds are raised, the dog will be purchased and enrolled in training. The timeline looks to have the K9 officer starting training around April 8 and fully certified to work with the department at the end of that month. Donations are still being accepted, and those interested can do so by dropping off their donations at the Lake View Police Station or Lake View City Hall.
