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AMERICAN FORK — The American Fork Police Department is trying to raise money for two new police dogs to replace its older dogs currently in the K9 unit.
Police dogs are a critical part in fighting crime in most communities as they are often the first line of defense between criminals and the police officers. The dogs that are part of the American Fork Police K9 unit, Wolf and Duco, have had long, distinguished careers. However, they are now 63 years old in dog years and the police officers would like to retire the animals.
"You couldn't be as effective as an officer or as a community without a police K9," said American Fork police officer Russ Bishop. "You just couldn't. (It's) the greatest feeling in the world having a dog with you."
The Belgian Malinois dogs joined the American Fork police force in 2006.
Duco was partnered with officer Ryan Archuleta for the last few years, and officers said the dog is always eager to work.
"Just his willingness to go to work for me and be my partner," Archuleta said.
The K9 dogs live with their handlers at home to strengthen the bonds between the officers and dogs.
Donations can be made to the American Fork Police Department K9 Fund at any Bank of American Fork branch, or cash and checks will be accepted at the American Fork Police Department.
"I care for him, feed him," Archuleta said. "So he knows me as 'dad,' basically."
"You work with these dogs enough you establish this, 'You're my partner, you're my buddy' type of bond," Bishop said.
Bishop said he feels more confident when he hits the streets with his canine partner, Wolf.
"Just seeing a canine officer show up tends to de-escalate a lot of situations," Bishop said.
The two American Fork K9 teams have kept tens of thousands of dollars in drugs off the streets and chased suspects in neighborhoods. But now, the officers said the dogs need to be retired.
Wednesday, the Bank of American Fork donated $11,000 toward the cost of two new dogs and their training. The community has raised more than $23,000 so far, but needs another $7,000 to reach the target.
The K9 officers will pick out their new dog partners in March. They dogs will go through rigorous training and should be ready to be deployed in the field in the fall of 2014.
Donations can be made to the American Fork Police Department K9 Fund at any Bank of American Fork branch, or cash and checks will be accepted at the American Fork Police Department.
*KSL.com
