The Dade City Police Department is seeking the public’s help in bringing a new four-legged officer on board. It’s only K9 Officer, Ryko, just retired with his handler after eight faithful years.
- Dade City Police Department trying to raise money for a new K9 officer
- A K9 costs about $10,000
- A benefit barbecue will be held on June 23 to raise money
The Dade City Police Department says K9 officers play an important role and it hopes to get a replacement soon. But, it isn’t that easy.
A K9 costs about $10,000 and Ryko’s retirement was unexpected so getting a new K9 wasn’t in the budget. Now it’s looking to raise money.
The Dade City Kiwanis Club is hosting a benefit barbecue in hopes to help offset the costs.
“It's really a force multiplier for us, it gives us the opportunity to have a tool that they can assist us with finding missing children or vulnerable adults,” said Officer Brain Uppercue. “They helps us with search and rescue of people that are involved in accidents of some kind, sniffing drugs and guns, and also doing building searches for us."
For a $10 donation, the barbecue meal will include pulled pork, coleslaw, baked beans, and bread. They will be served by drive-thru service at the Badcock Home Furnishings on 7th street on June 23rd, 4-7pm.
Tickets can be purchased at the police department, Chamber of Commerce, or Badcock.
