Wasilla police K-9 fundraising campaign extended

WASILLA — A public campaign to help cover the estimated $30,000-$50,000 needed to replace Wasilla Police Department K-9 officer Marshal is gaining traction, according to Wasilla Retail Crime Association spokesman Michael Hand.

Since word of Marshal’s untimely death due to advanced cancer, WPD Chief Gene Belden said public sentiment has been strong. Earlier this month, Belden issued a public statement noting the public has shown a strong desire to keep the department’s K-9 program intact. However, given current budget constraints both at the state and local levels, combined with the fact that Marshal’s death wasn’t expected, the department doesn’t have the necessary funds for a replacement budgeted, Belden said.

“At a time in which the loss was unexpected, so is the expense of a replacement,” Belden said.

Belden said there are more costs besides the canine, such as training and certifications. Belden said his department is hoping the public will answer the call to bring a replacement onboard. And that response has begun.

What started out as a two-day fundraising campaign has been going on for the past week and will continue through July 9. In cooperation with Walmart in Wasilla, WRCA, local law enforcement and the public have a number of ongoing events. Hand said there has been a change in the planned food and drink activities which were going to be handed out for donations toward the cause.

“We’ve been averaging about $250 a day (in donations),” Hand said.

Instead of distributing the planned hotdogs, hamburgers and soda at no charge, organizers opted to have a nominal fee with proceeds still going toward the K9 replacement costs. The dates and times are the same, July 8-9, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. in the Walmart parking lot. Since the initial planning, Hand said many community members have gotten involved. Each day, local artisans and crafters are selling wares with proceeds earmarked for Marshal’s replacement. Hand said the same thing is happening with an ongoing bake sale. Other activities, such as planned kid’s games, are still on as well, Hand said.

Additionally, Hand said Lowe’s of Wasilla has donated a mechanic’s tool box and tools which will be raffled off and the end of the day July 9. The parking lot also will have a mock jail cell where “criminals” are being held until they can raise enough “bail” money to be released. Again, all generated revenues are for the K-9 program.

He said anyone wanting to add their services to the event is welcomed to email him for additional information at wasillarca@gmail.com.

Belden said any funds beyond the cost of the canine and related training will be earmarked for ongoing expenses associated with the dog’s care, as well as required training and certifications. Anyone wishing to donate directly to the department may write a check, with a notation on the memo line that reads “Police K9 donation” payable to the City of Wasilla. All donations are tax deductible in accordance with IRS code.

Those wanting a receipt can make their donation in person at the Wasilla Police Department or the in city’s finance department at city hall. Checks may also be placed in the city hall payment drop box, or mailed to the City of Wasilla Finance Department, 290 East Herning Avenue, Wasilla, AK 99654.

Contact reporter Chris Ford at 352-2270 or chris.ford@frontiersman.com