KENOVA TO ACCEPT DONATIONS FOR DRUG DOG

KENOVA -- City Council took action Thursday night that will probably add
another law enforcement officer -- one with four legs and an educated nose.

Correcting a problem with a previous fund-raising effort, council adopted a
resolution allowing the city to accept donations to purchase Mickey, a
drug-sniffing German Shepherd.

Dale Christian, who is heading the canine unit drive, said he has received
$4,500 in commitments toward the $6,000 cost of the dog and training for
Officer First Class Jorge Plymale.

Plymale had previously raised $6,000 to add the canine unit to the police
force, but the money had to be returned because the fund wasn't set up
properly. The officer apologized to council members, but said he thought
the German Shepherd would be a valuable asset to the police department.

"If you can deter the flow of drug traffic, you can cut back on crime in
the city," Plymale said.

Carl Berlin, a retired state police officer, said he had six drug dogs when
he was stationed in Beckley.

"They were very helpful," Berlin said. "The dogs were a good deterrent.
Having a drug dog is like having another policeman on the street."

Mayor Trey Morrone recommended setting up a special canine unit fund, and
council followed through with a unanimous vote.

"One good drug bust would probably pay for the dog," Councilman Birdie
Lester said.

Plymale said he would leave for dog training school Aug. 4 if enough money
is raised.