Charleroi K-9 fundraiser set

By TAYLOR BROWN

tbrown@yourmvi.com

K-9 Blitz and his handler, Officer William Goodwin, will show off their skills during a fundraiser for the Charleroi Regional Police Department’s K-9 unit next week. 

The fundraiser, organized by Charleroi Councilwoman Nancy Ellis, will take place from noon to 3 p.m. Sunday in the parking lot at Fifth Street and McKean Avenue in Charleroi. 

Goodwin took over as Blitz’s trainer in June, and this will be his first public display with the dog. 

Charleroi Regional Police Board Chairman Bill Lee is excited for the community to meet the duo. 

“The K-9 unit is one of the most important parts of our police force,” Lee said. “Having an event like this really allows them to get out into the community to show people what they do.

“I think, especially for young people, having a K-9 unit creates a positive relationship between the police and our community. To really let people know they are there to protect them and they care.”

Lee said the K-9 unit is part of the police budget each year, but fundraisers help to cover the cost of needed training, certifications, food, veterinary bills and other unforeseen expenses. 

“The program has always been well received by the community and well supported,” Lee said. “I think that has a lot to do with the way they portray themselves when they are in our communities on the job and interacting with the public.”

Though Goodwin and Blitz have only been partners for several months, Lee said he has heard nothing but good things. 

“From what our chief has told us, Officer Goodwin and Blitz are getting along really well. His family also likes having Blitz around, so that is good to hear. They seem to be working well together.”

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