A local sheriff's department is looking for your help in funding another officer; one that has four legs. The Beltrami County Sheriff's Office is looking to add another K9.
The bond partners in law enforcement share is like no other.
Deputy Dan Rockensock with the Beltrami County Sheriff's Department says, "You eat together, sleep together."
That sounds inappropriate, but when your coworker has four legs, fur and a tail, it makes sense.
Dept. Rockensock says, "Looks like a giant, but just a gentle giant. Unless he's chasing after you."
Meet Kayos, she's a member of the Beltrami County Sheriff's department, and Dept. Rockensock's partner. She's man's best friend, and while she depends on him, she's got powers he doesn't.
Dept. Rockensock says, "Saves us a lot a lot of man power."
Sgt. Jason Riggs with the Beltrami County Sheriff's Department says, "Our department's short two dogs."
They're trying to raise $25,000 to add another dog. That may seem like a lot, but when you can smell a little bag of meth from across the room. It basically pays for itself.
Sgt. Riggs says, "When word gets out that you have a dog, a lot of people do less things that require a dog."
She's got a powerful nose and just a few years ago there were a few more on staff. But over time…
Dept. Rockensock says, "The dogs take a lot of wear and tear on them."
They had to retire. And since Beltrami county is so big, they could use some help.
Sgt. Riggs says, "If your loved ones out lost in the woods, what better way to track them down."
And when you're paying an employee in kibble and a chew toy.
Sgt. Riggs says, "Yeah, the cost difference is huge."
Having another pup on the force not only can save lives, it saves a few bucks.
A K9 costs about $20,000 initially, and then about $5,000 for care every year. That's compared to about $100,000 it costs for salary, benefits and insurance for a human officer.
If you want to donate, you can send a check made out to the Beltrami County Sheriff's Office, attention Segreant/K9 Supervisor. You're asked to write "K9 Donation" on the check. The address is:
613 Minnesota Avenue
Bemidji, MN 56601
You can also personally stop by the sheriff's office and drop of your check.
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