Floyd County gets first K9 in more than 20 years

(ABC 6 News) – For the first time in more than 20 years, the Floyd County Sheriff’s Office will have a K9. Before, the county used other departments’ K9s when it needed one.

Deputy Luke Chatfield said one of the main reasons for getting Sirius, is because of drugs in the area. Sirius will help track those drugs and anyone that might try and run from deputies. Chatfield said it might not seem like it, but there are more drugs out there than the average person would even know.

Even though Floyd County has its own K9 now, it doesn’t mean deputies won’t continue to work with other counties.

“There might be times where I’m on vacation or something like that. Or the dog gets hurt,” Deputy Chatfield explained.

“Therefore, we’ll still work with other counties and we’ll be able to call for other K9 units from another county. We’re still going to assist with our K9 if needed up in their counties.”

Chatfield proposed a plan with other deputies on how to raise money for a K9 program. A process, not cheap by any means.

At least $30,000 dollars was needed. The dog itself costs anywhere between $12,000 – $19,000. The rest of the money goes towards things like training and equipment. About halfway to its goal, Mike Molstead Motors decided to foot the rest of the bill. Making two-and-a-half-year-old Sirius, the department’s newest member.

“There were so many other generous donations we’ve had from businesses and stuff that has made this possible. It’s great the community can come together and assist in something that’s going to benefit the county.”

The Mill, Inc. helped to supply dog food.

When Sirius is not on the clock, he lives at home with Deputy Chatfield.

Sirius will start his K9 training on Monday. The goal is to get him working on the field in early October.