MIDDLEBURG – Effective today, Snyder County has their first K-9 Unit in service. Snyder County Sheriff John Zechman says the newest deputy is a male German Shepherd named Leo. The dog received instruction and certification at Shallow Creek Kennels located in western Pennsylvania. His handler is Chief Deputy Lucas Bingman. Leo and Bingman have received extensive training in narcotics detection and human tracking.
The K-9 Unit is funded through donations from individuals, businesses, community organizations and school students. Leo will be making appearances at local schools, senior centers and other community events with the Snyder County Sheriff’s Office.
Zechman says the K-9 Unit was formed because they wanted to take a proactive approach against the opioid epidemic, in addition to expanding the Drug Take Back program and receiving Narcan training for overdose reversals at no additional cost to the taxpayers.
Leo will be available to law enforcement agencies, not only in Snyder County, but throughout the Central Susquehanna Valley. Leo will also be utilized in the court system as a calming tool for children that may be uncomfortable with a courtroom setting.
Donations are still being accepted for the K-9 program at the Snyder County Sheriff’s Office in Middleburg. (Ali Stevens)
