Ohio village sells police K9, community suspects retaliation

A village in Ohio is facing criticism after leaders voted to sell a police K9 named Drees. The vote took place on March 9, and the council agreed to sell Drees for $1,500. Residents are concerned that this decision is a form of retaliation. The controversy began when Drees’ handler, Officer Chris Whitaker, announced that he would take a new job. Former Police Chief Mike Gardner believes the village leaders are angry with Whitaker and decided to sell Drees in response. Gardner, who helped start the K9 program in 2015, said the dog was funded through donations and drug seizure money. According to Ohio law, when a K9 is sold, the handler can usually buy the dog for $1 upon retirement. However, the law states that if a handler leaves the K9 unit while the dog is still fit for duty, they lose that right. Gardner argues that the village leaders are misrepresenting how long Drees can serve. Drees is trained to detect marijuana, but many K9s have retired since marijuana was legalized in the state. Gardner claims that Drees may not be suitable for a new handler if he is sold. He also stated that Whitaker is not moving to another police department. Reports indicate that Whitaker was able to potentially buy Drees thanks to an anonymous donation. Community members have expressed their frustration and believe that the donation made by the village was not genuine. Gardner commented that it seemed like "damage control" from the council.