BCPD K-9 unit going through changes

The Brazil City Police Department is experiencing some changes.

Both K-9 Handler/Patrolman Kenny Hill and Patrolman Jeremy Mace are moving on in their law enforcement careers.

According to Brazil Police Chief Dave Archer, Hill recently took a new job with the Federal Bureau of Prisons.

“(Hill) was an excellent officer with the department,” Archer recently told The Brazil Times. “He will be missed. We wish him the best of luck in his new job.”

Per department protocols, K-9 Officer Anya had to have a medical check up with the vet, which Archer confirmed she passed with flying colors. However, Anya still needs a handler.

“I never really thought about being a K-9 handler before,” Mace said about his new assignment. “But working as a partner with Kenny and going on ridealongs with Anya, that changed. I’m really looking forward to it.”

Mace said Hill taught him how to work with Anya before he left the department.

Anya has moved into Mace’s home and quickly became a part of the family.

“We’ve bonded quickly,” he said. “Anya is a great asset to the department.

Both will need to attend training at the academy — which Archer said would be scheduled as soon as possible — before going on active duty. But Mace and Anya are training with the two canine units at the Clay County Sheriff’s Department and riding together while Mace is on patrol.

“It’s a way for her to get used to traveling in my car and to me,” Mace said. “We’re learning to work together. I’m really looking forward to working with her at the academy.”

Archer said the department would eventually like to have a second canine unit, but not right now.

“Progress on getting a second canine unit is on hold because we just don’t have the manpower right now. Our focus right now is to bring Anya and Mace up to speed,” Archer said. “We need to get them the training they need to be a successful team.”

However, since the community supports the canine unit, Archer said those interested may still make donations to fund the project.

“We’re really grateful to the public for all their support with not only our department’s unit, but that of the sheriff’s department as well,” Archer said. “The community really benefits from having the dogs as assets in the departments.”

To support the Brazil City Police Department’s canine unit program, contact the Brazil City Clerk/Treasurer’s Office at 448-8403 for more information, or stop by Riddell National Bank to make a donation.

By Ivy Jacobs

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