Floyd County to start K9 program for the first time in almost 25 years

(ABC 6 News) – It’s been almost 25 years since the Floyd County Sheriff’s Office has had a K9 program, and there hasn’t been a K9 in the county for three years.

Deputy Luke Chatfield put together a proposed plan with other deputies on how to raise money for a program. He said, “now is the right time.”

Starting the program will not be cheap. At least $30,000 is needed. Right now, Rev, the K9 in Mitchell County has been pulling double duty and helping in both counties. Floyd County is also getting assistance from the Chickasaw County K9 program.

“On average, probably three to four times a week, we’ve had the opportunity to either call or wanted to call for a K9,” said Deputy Chatfield. “So we got the narcotic’s reason obviously and it’d be the most used purpose of the dog. And also, just not on the criminal side of things, but we can use it for tracking children or older individuals that have dementia, or other medical health problems that need assistance.”

ABC 6 asked Deputy Chatfield what the dog’s role will be if there is an active shooter situation. He said: “It’d be beneficial to have one. Our dog won’t actually be trained necessarily in active shooter situations, some dogs are. Our dog won’t be trained in but we could utilize it. If there was a shooter in [the] school, obviously we’d take the dog in with us.”

The dog will help with other tasks like different searches and tracking. Once the department gets the dog, it will live with Deputy Chatfield.

The dog itself costs anywhere from $12,000 to $18,000. The rest of the $30,000 needed will go towards things like training and equipment. As of Monday morning, Deputy Chatfield said $20,000 has been raised.

All money donated will be put into a K9 account with any excess money being used to help the ongoing cost and care of the program. If you’re interested in donating, you’re asked to send a tax-deductible donation to:

Floyd County K9 Project
Floyd County Sheriff’s Office
101 S. Main Street Suite G132
Charles City, IA 50616

An account has also been set up at:

CUSB Bank
1407 S. Grand Ave.
Charles City, IA 50616