| PR #: | 1200122 |
| Date Issued: | Sep 25, 2012 - 2:48pm |
Helen Close Foundation grant provides new K-9 Unit for Sheriff's Detention Facility | |
| CONTACT: | Bob Harmon Washoe County Sheriff's Office Office 775-785-6235 Cell 775-722-5517 |
The Washoe County Sheriff’s Detention Facility will receive a new K-9 thanks to a generous $25,325.00 grant from Reno’s Helen Close Charitable Foundation.
The Close Foundation grant was accepted, with appreciation, by the Washoe County Board of County Commissioners during today’s meeting. The grant will be used for the purchase of the new canine and to cover expenses necessary for training.
“The presence of canines in our Detention Facility greatly enhances the overall safety of our operations,” Washoe County Sheriff Sergeant Anthony Miceli said. “These animals are able to detect the smallest amounts of narcotic or explosive odors, helping us to quickly and effectively prevent criminal activity within the facility.”
In addition to narcotic and contraband sniffs, detention facility canines are responsible for perimeter checks, safeguarding the housing units, and assisting with combative inmates.
Sergeant Miceli said the canines are extremely effective with assisting staff when controlling large groups of inmates.
“Simply the presence of the dog results in a reduction of unrest, fights, and disciplinary problems,” he said.
This is the second grant-funded K-9 Unit assigned to the Detention Facility since 2010. In addition to working inside the facility, both teams will have the training and skills necessary to serve patrol units in the field when necessary.
The Washoe County Sheriff's Office celebrated 150 years of proud service and community partnership in 2011. Sheriff Michael Haley is the 25th person elected to serve as the Sheriff of Washoe County. His office continues to be the only full service public safety agency operating within northern Nevada and is responsible for operating the consolidated detention facility, regional crime lab, Northern Nevada Counter Terrorism Center, Internet Crimes against Children Task Force, court security, service of civil process, traditional street patrols and Regional Animal Services.
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