Barbara Cross, a Lake Havasu City resident, has organized a fundraiser and is looking for the community’s support to fund a K-9 program for the Lake Havasu City Police Department.  These funds will be solely dedicated to the LHCPD’s K-9 program and are used for the purchase of the dog, training and equipment.

The initiative was jump started by multiple community members wanting to support the police department by donating money to a K-9 program.  The department did have a K-9 named “Cliff” from 2006 – 2012.  “Cliff” was a Belgian Malinois and served with the Lake Havasu City Police Department as a narcotics detection dog as well as a patrol dog.  The police department budget was not able to sustain a K-9 program after 2012. 

The dog currently being looked at is a dog named “Rocky”.  He is a two-year old Springer Spaniel.  “Rocky” is currently going through training and will be starting a two-week school in late January 2020 with a Lake Havasu City Police Officer still to be chosen.  Springer Spaniels are one of the best recognized sniffer dogs actively used for the detection of illegal drugs. These dogs are also known for their good temperament.

The Lake Havasu City Police Department welcomes the community’s support and would be able to use the K-9 as a tool in the fight against illegal drugs.   

To kick off the campaign, Cross will be having a fundraiser at Fugs 2068 McCulloch Blvd. N. on December 18, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.  Come down for chicken wings, a chance to win raffle items and an opportunity to bid on a private airplane ride over the Grand Canyon to support the Lake Havasu City Police Department’s K-9 program.   A representative from LHCPD will be at the event to answer any questions about the K-9 program.

Barbara Cross, a strong supporter of the program, will be matching all donations up to $25,000 given to this cause until the end of January 2020.   Individuals who would like to donate or are unable to attend the fundraiser can make checks payable to the FOP (Fraternal Order of Police) Lodge #47,  2360 McCulloch Blvd. N. Lake Havasu City, AZ 86403.

Public Information Officer:  Sergeant Tom Gray

Photo: “Rocky”