HomeLocalSPD adds two officers through K9 programSPD adds two officers through K9 programThu, May 6, 2021 by SylacaugaNews.com Digital TeamSHARE NOW SYLACAUGA, Ala. – The Sylacauga Police Department announced the addition of two K9 officers to its force.According to a news release from the SPD, Officer Dicky, a 4-year-old black Labrador, and Officer Drago, a 5-year-old German Shepard, and their handlers, Sgt. Ryan Gaither and Officer Lamar Taylor will make up the new K9 program.The two dogs and their training were donated by iK9 and 1st Foundation.iK9 is a comprehensive canine solutions provider for detection and service dogs. Landon Ash, iK9’s president, and director Danny Turner train the dogs, and 1st Foundation is the non-profit that donates the animals to law enforcement agencies that want to replace or start a K9 program.Due to budget constraints, this program never would have happened without donations from local businesses.SPD also offered thanks to businesses that donated products, money, and services to help restart the K9 program, including Affordable Heating & Air, Amerifab & Machine, Area Real Estate, Baxley Animal Hospital, Conn-Crete, Jay’s Sports Grill, Oak Grove Feed & Seed, and Petsense.The handlers and their K9 partners are set to complete a six week training and a certification process that will certify the handler and K9 as a team.After completing the certification, the two teams will begin their tours of duty as police officers with the City of Sylacauga.Those who would like to make a donation to the program, contact Sgt. Ryan Gaither at (256) 401-2439.