Prospect Hts. police add K-9 unit

Prospect Heights Police has added a K-9 unit. Bane, an 18-month-old German shepard, will partner with Officer/Handler Alan Thibeault to promote an atmosphere of community awareness and positive public relations, police officials said.

A K-9 unit brings multiple benefits. It can be used effectively to improve community relations. It can act as a force multiplier, enhancing officer safety, when dealing with gang-related offense/incidents and drug detection.

"The role of a police dog and handler cannot be underestimated," Chief James Dunne said in a news release. "Many of the programs the Prospect Heights Police Department participates in are designed to create a bridge between the police and our community. The acquisition of Bane is yet another example of this."

Dunne's decision to deploy the K-9 unit was strongly supported by the mayor, staff and city council. Start-up costs associated with the dog/handler, training and equipment came from a recently awarded grant and the department's state seized drug fund account.