Roodhouse officer launches fundraiser to add police dog
Roodhouse officer launches fundraiser to add police dog
Patrolman Leyton Moffitt said the police department’s current canine, Turbo, will retire soon. The fundraiser is meant to offset the costs of keeping the department’s K-9 program going, he said.
“In a small town, funding can be difficult to secure, and expenses such as extensive training, veterinary care, food, equipment and police vehicle modifications can quickly add up,” he said.
The police dog can help locate drugs, find missing people and enhance community outreach, Moffitt said.
While there is not a specific goal set, Moffitt said raising $5,000 would be amazing.
Police dogs typically cost between $8,000 and $10,000. The department has applied for a grant from the U.S. Police Canine Association to help further offset the cost.
About $2,500 has been raised so far, and he said having that much money already felt great. He is confident the fundraiser will be able to add a significant amount toward the cost, if not raise enough to cover it.
“The support from the community as a whole reminds us that our community genuinely cares about public safety and ensures our department remains well-equipped to serve,” he said. “Having strong community support strengthens our department.”
The raffle includes three firearms: a shotgun and two 9mm pistols. Tickets are $20 each or three for $50 and available by contacting Moffitt directly. Only 300 tickets will be sold for the March 30 drawing.