WPD asking for community’s help in wake of K9’s death

WASILLA — Marshal, an eight-year old Belgian Malinois, became the third police K9 in the Mat-Su to die in the last year. The Wasilla Police Department (WPD) canine was euthanized in April after discovering he suffered from cancer.

According to a statement from WPD Chief Gene Belden, the department is asking for the community’s help in securing necessary funding for a replacement.

“In April…(the department’s sole working dog)…was suddenly and unexpectedly found to be ill with an aggressive cancer,” Belton said, adding that Marshal was examined and found with an incurable form of the disease.

Marshal’s partner, WPD Sergeant Don Ridge said he had noticed Marshal becoming lethargic and his movements more stiff than usual. It was reported a trip to the veterinarian revealed inoperable masses in his abdomen. Belden said the “unexpected tragedy” left the department without its own police K9.

Marshal is the third K9 fatality in the Mat-Su since last September. On March 26 of this year, K9 Rico, a three-year old Dutch Shepherd, was the second canine killed in the line of duty. On Sept. 25, 2016, “Helo”, a six-year old Belgian Malinois, was the first killed in the State of Alaska. Both were Alaska State Troopers.

“In an agreement with Wasilla City Mayor Bert Cottle, and the sentiment of the public citizens, we recognize the valuable resource of police working dogs,” Belden stated. The chief said police K9’s have proven themselves an invaluable asset in locating illegal drugs and other contraband, as well in apprehending offenders. “In accordance with the public’s desires, the (WPD) is seeking to continue the police K9 program. At a time in which the loss was unexpected, so is the expense of a replacement.”

Belden said that cost ranges anywhere from $30,000 to $50,000. 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 answering has begun.

The Wasilla Retail Crime Association (WRCA) has a two-day fundraiser in the planning stages right after the Fourth of July holiday. According to WRCA spokesman Mike hand, the public is being asked to come out for the cause on July 8-9. In cooperation with the Wasilla Walmart, those two days will be filled with family activities, food and drink in the store parking lot.

“We’re still in the process of planning stuff,” Hand said. “But the main part will be the cookout with free food and drinks. We’re hoping to have things like face-painting and hopefully a dunk tank.”

Hand said the Association will rely on donations from those attending. All donations will then go toward a replacement for Marshal. Tentative times for both days is 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. He said anyone wanting to add their services to the event is welcomed to email him for additional information.

In addition to lending its parking lot, WPD spokesperson Amanda Graham said Walmart may also have grant funds available to help cover costs. She said the process of filing needed paperwork from the department and city is underway. Hand said there is also a possibility of Lowe’s getting involved at the corporate level.

Belden said any funds beyond the cost of the canine and related training will be earmarked for ongoing expenses association 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 “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 on Parks Highway, or the city’s Finance Department at city hall. Checks may also be placed in the city hall payment drop box, or mailed to City of Wasilla Finance Department, 290 East Herning Avenue, Wasilla, AK 99654. For additional information on the July 8-9 event, contact hand at wasillarca@gmail.com