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South Whitley council approves $5,500 to buy replacement K‑9 for school resource officers
Summary
The council approved buying a certified K‑9 for $5,000 plus $500 for a medical exam to replace a medically retired dog; the dog will receive three weeks of local unit training and serve with the Whitko School Corporation SRO program.
The South Whitley Town Council voted Aug. 27 to purchase a certified police dog to serve with the town’s school resource officer program.
Town Marshal Mikel Vandevender reported that K‑9 Jaycee had been medically retired and that the Wells County Sheriff’s Department offered a 2.5‑year‑old certified female Belgian Malinois/German Shepherd. Vandevender asked the council to approve a $5,000 purchase plus $500 for a complete medical workup to confirm the dog’s health. Councilman Brock Waterson moved to approve the purchase and medical exam; Councilman Trey Weber seconded. The motion passed 3‑0.
Vandevender said the incoming dog would require approximately three weeks of training with Officer Fannin and coordination with the Allen County K‑9 unit. He also swore in K‑9 Bia as a new SRO dog for Whitko School Corporation during the meeting; SRO Officer Thomas was present for the ceremony. Marshal Vandevender said Officer Haupert is completing field training and has been submitted for an academy class hoped for in January.
The council’s approval directs staff to complete the purchase and funding for the $5,500 total. The council did not specify the funding source during the meeting.
The council adjourned at 7:21 p.m.
