Police in Redwood Falls will get their first ever K-9 thanks to a $45,500 donation from a local volunteer group.
The money will cover startup costs such as the purchase of a dog, and training for it and a handler. Redwood Falls, about 70 miles northwest of Mankato, accepted the donation at a city council meeting Jan. 2.
The money was raised via raffles and gifts from local people, according to a group founded in July known as Providing Resources, Officer Training, Equipment, Canine, and Team Support, or PROTECTS.
"We always knew that we lived in a law-enforcement friendly community," said Krysta Schroeder, one of seven board members at PROTECTS. "We've always felt supported, appreciated; this really solidifies that."
The donation covers startup costs, but the city or the police department will cover upkeep of the dog, said Schroeder, a funeral director in Redwood Falls who is the wife of assistant police chief Steve Schroeder.
The dog will be used for drug detection and patrol work, Police Chief Jason Cotner told city council members.
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