(KNZA)--The Brown County Sheriff’s Department will be adding a drug sniffing K-9 to its force.
Sheriff John Merchant told the County Commission Monday that after looking into it for a year, he feels the K-9 is needed.
Merchant says the black lab named Ari is being purchased for $5,500, which includes training.
He says Deputy Cody Spire will serve as the dog’s handler.
Merchant says while the K-9’s major purpose will be for drug detection, the dog will also be used for therapy/comfort purposes. He said dog can be used to help a child that’s gone through a traumatic event.
In other business, Sheriff’s Deputy Brandon Lowe informed the Commission that he’s taking a position with the Hiawatha Police Department.
Lowe said the reason he’s leaving the county after five years is because the city provides better health insurance benefits for his family. He said it cost him more than $1,100 a month for health insurance coverage for his family through the county’s plan, while he will only be paying $100 a month on the city’s plan.
Lowe said he has enjoyed his time with the county and hopes the Commission can find a way to improve the cost of insurance.
He’s to begin work with the Hiawatha Police Department on September 1st.
© Many Signals Communications
MOST VIEWED STORIES
Holton man killed in Jackson Co crash
Morrill pair arrested on drug, child endangerment charges
Cold case investigation leads to Holton warrant
Effingham owner regains truck following theft, arrest
Horton City Clerk's resignation accepted Monday
Local residents avoid injury in chain reaction crash
90 mph+ downburst winds blamed for Thursday damage
Wamego man sentenced in second fentanyl-related death
Mayetta pair arrested on meth, child endangerment charges
Stolen trailer, 4-wheeler, recovered in Atchison
Winchester native named as Amberwell CEO
Juveniles face charges following Atchison break-in
Atchison Co's Oswald named honorary bailiff for KS Court
Former Kickapoo Tribal chairman arrested
Two arrested following Friday Jackson Co traffic stop
McLouth man injured in Monday wreck
No injuries in early Sunday morning house fire in Falls City
Senator Slama on tax relief efforts
LATEST STORIES
Holton property search concludes with arrest
Former Kickapoo Tribal chairman arrested
Atchison company earns energy grant; upgrades planned
Winchester native named as Amberwell CEO
April is Alcohol Awareness Month in Nebraska
MoDOT to discuss Holt County bridge projects
Sheriff's Office to take part in drug take back event
Council hears report from golf course