November 14, 2022 at 10:52 a.m.
RPD seeking community assistance to purchase patrol vehicle for K-9 unit
RPD seeking community assistance to purchase patrol vehicle for K-9 unit
According to Chief Lloyd Gauthier, the department is in need of a specially designed vehicle to transport an officer and canine partner, a citizen and all necessary equipment.
"A large amount of the K-9 Unit's time is spent inside the team's patrol vehicle," according to letter from Gauthier to prospective donors. "As such, these patrol vehicles are expected to be specially designed with safety in mind. This includes specialized seats safety glass, dividers, special releases, and access points. Our goal is to raise enough money for the purchase of a specialized K-9 patrol vehicle and all of the equipment. Funds leftover can go to paying for veterinarian visits, food, shelter, and/or other specialized K-9 training and equipment."
In the letter, Gauthier notes that the K-9 unit has always been community-funded, separate from the department's budget.
The department's appeal is to the entire community, not just community members and organizations in the city itself, as the department's two K-9 units are the only such units in all of Oneida County and are frequently called upon by other agencies.
"Our K-9 units have assisted with search and rescue of lost or missing persons, participated in local illegal drug interdictions, criminal apprehension, locating evidence that has been abandoned or hidden, building and area searches, handler protection and public relations," the letter states.
The department's two K-9 Units are comprised of Sergeant Chad Brown and Odin and Officer Mark Raddatz and Jason.
Odin, a German Shepard, is a Dual Purpose K-9 certified in narcotic detection and patrol work. Jason, a Belgian Malinois, is also a Dual Purpose K-9 certified in narcotic detection and patrol work. He is named in memory of Everest Metro Det. Jason Weiland who was killed in the line of duty, responding to a mass shooting in Weston in March 2017.
The capital campaign to purchase a new vehicle for the K-9 unit was announced on Nov. 2 and already Rhinelander Masonic Lodge #242 has responded with a press release announcing its support for the initiative.
Anyone wishing to donate can do so in person at the Rhinelander Police Department or by mailing donations to 201 N. Brown Street, Rhinelander, WI 54501 Attn: K9 fund.
"We graciously appreciate any amount you are willing to donate to this capital campaign," the letter states. "Unfortunately, we are unable to accept gifts of food or toys."
Heather Schaefer may be reached at [email protected].
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