The Spirit of Blue Foundation, a national 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing the safety of law enforcement officers, is proud to announce that the Howard County Sheriff’s Office has been selected as the recipient of a Safety Training Grant.
The grant was used to acquire K9 Kees, a three-year-old male Belgian Malinois from the Netherlands. K9 Kees was purchased from Ultimate Canine, LLC, the grant covered the cost of the canine and associated training.
K9 Kees has already been an asset to the departure by locating over 60 grams of fentanyl on a traffic stop on his very first night on the patrol. K9 Kees will assist in furthering the department’s ability to serve and protect the community.
This critical grant is made possible through the generous support of Law Enforcement United (LEU), a national organization comprised of active and retired law enforcement officers, as well as surviving family members of fallen officers. LEU raises funds annually through a 250-mile bicycle ride into Washington, D.C., during National Police Week to honor and remember fallen officers.
In addition to LEU’s sponsorship, Guardian Angel Devices contributed mounting accessories to support the safe and effective deployment of the new K9 unit. Additional support was provided by Sportsmen Organized for Law Enforcement (SOLE) and the Renee & Gordon Graham Foundation, whose contributions helped bring this grant to fruition.
“This grant exemplifies the Spirit of Blue’s mission to enhance officer safety and vitality by meeting vital safety equipment and training needs,” said Ryan T. Smith, Executive Director of the Spirit of Blue Foundation. “We believe this K9 will not only provide tactical advantage but will serve as a trusted partner in keeping Howard County deputies and the community safe.”
While no additional equipment or services are included as part of this grant, the Spirit of Blue is confident that this contribution will significantly increase the operational effectiveness and safety of the Howard County Sheriff’s Office.
For more information on the Spirit of Blue Foundation and its mission, visit www.spiritofblue.org.
