Dog-inclusive event raises funds for York County Sheriff's K-9 Unit, promotes bonding

York Daily Record

The York County Sheriff’s Office held its Second Annual K-9 Unit Fundraiser and Fall Event at John Rudy County Park in East Manchester Township Sunday.

Puck, a long-haired working line German Shepherd meets McGruff the Crime Dog during the York County Sheriff’s Office Second Annual K-9 Unit Fundraiser and Fall Event at Rudy Park Sunday. Puck's owner, Laurie Vaden, said, "his McGruff's) face looks like the stuffed animals he plays with at home."

The event started with an opening ceremony featuring the York City Police Honor Guard, Sheriff's Honor Guard and the York County Police Pipe & Drums to honor first responders and officers who have died in the line of duty.

Highlights of the event included a 1K walk and 5K run, K-9 demonstrations and vehicle displays.

Lt. David Godfrey, with the sheriff's office, said the event started last year "as a way to bond with the community."

"Usually, when people see us it's always equated to things that are bad, warrant service, PFAs, things of that nature, but we want to be able to interact with the community just on a regular basis," Godfrey said.

The sheriff's office's K-9 unit also regularly visits schools and community events.

There was a moment of silence to remember first responders and officers killed in the line of duty, during the opening ceremony of the York County Sheriff’s Office Second Annual K-9 Unit Fundraiser and Fall Event at Rudy Park Sunday. The York City Police Honor Guard is in the foreground.

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The primary function of the sheriff's department in York County is serving as "officers of the court, we serve courthouse security, prisoner transport, warrant service and civil process," Godfrey said. The K-9 component is available to any law enforcement agency.

Registration for the 5K run goes directly to support the K-9 unit.