McKees Rocks explores possible addition of K-9

-POLICE-

The McKees Rocks Police Department is exploring the addition of a dog to the force.

At a Sept. 6 borough caucus meeting, council members discussed plans to set up a 501(c) to begin fundraising for the dog. Under the tax code, this type of designation would set up the dog fund as a tax-exempt non-profit.

Council members were universally in favor of the addition of a K-9 and agreed to take up a vote on the topic at a future meeting.

The police department is consulting with Robinson Township Police Department’s Officer Frank Bryan on care, training and continued funding support for a police dog, said Chief Rick Deliman. The department is leaning toward bringin a Malinios breed on staff. At this time, Officer William Kelly would be partnered with the potential pooch.

Body cameras

McKees Rocks is also participating in a program to purchase body cameras for officers to ensure the protection of both those who interact with police and the force itself. Through Allegheny County funding, the force would be provided with $12,000 to defray the cost of the cameras. The borough would be expected to pay the remaining $11,354.50, with the expectation of possible later reimbursement through a grant the police department has applied for, said Deliman.