FOUNTAIN VALLEY : City Seeks Funds to Buy New Police Dog

Anno, a canine member of the Police Department, has paid his dues. The 11-year-old Belgian Malinois, a drug-sniffing dog, is to retire in December.

As part of the effort to raise $10,000 to purchase Anno’s replacement, a 5-kilometer run and walk will be held Oct. 22 at Mile Square Regional Park. The event is also intended to heighten awareness about the dangers of drug use.

Anno, who this summer earned top awards at a statewide narcotics detection competition, has been partners for more than five years with Senior Officer Ray (Rocky) Rakitis.

Police Sgt. Dann Bean said the department had hoped to keep Anno on the job until next July, but the dog needs to retire this year. “He’s still active,” Bean said. “We just don’t want to push him too far.”

Bean said the estimated $10,000 cost for a new dog includes training expenses. Right now the city cannot afford it.

The department’s other police dog is Hank, a German shepherd, who joined the force about eight months ago. Another German shepherd selected to replace Anno will be paired with Officer Tiffany Harper, Bean said.

Diane Tine, chairman of the “Goblin Gallop 5K Run and Walk,” said the event’s goal is to raise $10,000. The entry fee is $15. Registration will begin at 6 a.m. and the event begins at 8 a.m. The winners in the men’s and women’s divisions will each receive $250.