Howard County Sheriff’s Department seeking donations to add Dual-Purpose K-9

CRESCO - Howard County is looking to purchase a dual purpose K-9 unit to help serve and protect the community. 

Deputy Ben Hillyer spearheaded the campaign for adding a K9 unit to the Sheriff’s Department saying he was “adamant” and knew that having a K-9 would be a great “tool for the department.” 

The Department is looking at adding either a German Sheperd or a Belgian Malinois with Dual Purpose capabilities, meaning the dog will be trained in bite work, tracking, drug/narcotic discovery and assisting officers with arrests. 

In preparation for the large expense of adding a K-9 unit to the force, the Sheriff’s Department has applied for grants, and are still waiting to hear back. Other funding will be raised through fundraisers, with the goal amount being $30,000. 

 

A breakdown estimate 

of costs include: 

•Dog and training $15,000

•Annual Training $2,000 - $3,000

•K-9 vehicle equip. $6,000 - $8000

•K-9 Medical Kit

$200 - $300

•Dog Food $40/month

•Electric Collar $100 - $200

•Handler Bag $30

•Muzzle $100

•Bulletproof vest $1,200

•Reward Toys $50

•Quick rel. hip lead $30

•Tab lead $15

•Fail Safe Collar $25

•Dog Bowls $40

•Dog Bed $70

•Etc.

The vehicle transporting the dog must also be outfitted with sensors and air conditioning to keep appropriate conditions for the working K-9. 

The K-9 unit will be used as a “tool to help safely and productivity to do our jobs” says Hillyer. The presence of the K-9 will also help deter crime, and create a layer of safety for officers working alone.

Ben Hillyer will be the sole caretaker and 24/7 handler of the K-9 unit. 

The Howard County Sheriff’s Department plans to have future events regarding fundraising and introducing the dog, once chosen, to the community. The goal is to obtain the K-9 unit by the spring of 2025, after a couple months of fundraising. 

Anyone who would like to donate can call the Sheriff’s Department, and a deputy can come and collect the donation.  Any additional questions can be directed to the Howard County’s Sheriff’s Department.