The Jacksonville Police Department lost one of its canines July 1. Jeff, a 3-year-old German shepherd, died from anaphylactic shock as a result of a snake bite.
According to a press release, Jeff began his career with the department July 13, 2008. He was a certified dual purpose — patrol and narcotic — canine and was assigned to officer Christopher Galluppo. He contributed to numerous drug arrests and was responsible for the seizures of numerous grams of cocaine, marijuana and methamphetamine.
The department is looking into replacing Jeff; however, police dogs cost between $8,000 and $10,000 fully trained. Then, the officer who is assigned the canine has to train to become certified with the canine. Anyone who would like to help fund canine Jeff’s replacement may call April Kiser at 982-3191.