Two businesses donated the funds
(VERSAILLES, Ind.) – The Ripley County Sheriff’s Office has a new K-9 thanks to generous donations from a father and a son.
Caleb Kelly owns Mid-America Industrial which specializes in steel fabrication, process piping and mechanical maintenance.
His father, Chris, owns Kelly’s Hidden Acres Golf Course in Milan.
The sheriff’s office had been in need of a K-9 and was searching for grants and other funding to make it happen.
That’s when the two businesses approached the agency and offered to fund the purchase of a new police dog.
“We try to give back as a family to help people, and we saw this as a way to help everybody. Law enforcement isn’t just about my family, it affects everybody in Ripley County, “ Chris Kelly said.
The new K-9 is named “Dex” and arrived in Ripley County about two weeks ago.
It is currently going through an extensive training period with his handler, Deputy Justin Bachelor, before it is introduced to the public or utilized by the department.
Dex will be assigned to investigations that involve narcotics detection, apprehension and tracking. Kids will also have a chance to meet Dex at community events and some school functions.
Deputy Bachelor says Dex is another tool for the department to keep people safe and drugs off the street.
“It is great that we have businesses and people within the community like the Kelly’s. For me personally, I’m extremely thankful for the K-9 and I know the office is also appreciative of everything they’ve done for us,” Bachelor said.
The Kelly’s stopped by the department’s K-9 Training Area on Friday to meet Dex who is just over 1-year-old.
Caleb Kelly added, “It means a lot to give back to the county and the people who have always given to us.”
Sheriff Bradley said there has been no taxpayer money used to purchase the dog or any of the supplies that come with it.
There will be some additional expenses associated with Dex and community members can donate by reaching out to the sheriff's office.
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