The new Elk County K9 unit of Copper, a two-year old pure bred German Shepherd, and his handler Mike Shaffer, of the St. Marys Police Dept., conduct training exercises inside a library.

By Amy Cherry
Daily Press Staff

     As the newest member of the Elk County law enforcement team, Copper the German Shepherd, is learning the ropes from his handler Mike Shaffer of the St. Marys Police Department.

    Copper was officially introduced to Elk County law enforcement personnel during a meeting held at District Attorney Brad Kraus’ office.

    “This police dog is a collaborative effort between Elk County law enforcement efforts,” Kraus said. “The purchase of the dog was funded by monies from the District Attorney’s office which has been forfeited from drug cases. This drug money has turned into something positive for Elk County.”

    Kraus said the money builds up over time with grants being made available to local municipal police departments.

    Copper, a two-year old canine, arrived in St. Marys on Dec. 13 and was acquired through Philips Command Dogs in Olean, NY. He is a Czech-bred German Shepherd, considered to be a top breed.

    He will be utilized for tracking, trailing, drug detection and handler protection throughout the county and in the Elk County Prison.

    According to St. Marys Police Chief Todd Caltagarone the department raised $3,000 including a grant from Stackpole Hall Foundation which is being utilized to refurbish a vehicle to accommodate the K9 unit. St. Marys police officers are working on the project in-house. Rick’s Auto Body of Kersey has donated vehicle parts for the project while Tractor Supply has supplied monthly food donations for Copper.

    “This shows the community is coming together to make this asset available to Elk County law enforcement and prison,” Caltagarone said.

    As his handler, Shaffer participated in a two-week training in New York where he learned  the basic knowledge of the dog and his abilities. While Shaffer works with Copper on a daily basis, St. Marys certified dog trainer Jim Higgins has donated his time in working with the pair by providing additional training. Shaffer also makes weekly trips to New York where the provider evaluates the dog’s progress.    

    “Training is a continuous process,” according to Shaffer. “We are currently developing techniques by training on a routine basis. He will go through yearly certification as part of the process.”

    Caltagarone noted that in the future the department hopes to develop specific protocol as to how to utilize the dog. Currently police personnel utilize the K9 unit at their own discretion. Once officer’s request the dog’s services, County Control dispatches Copper and Shaffer to the scene.

    “We will also respond to neighboring jurisdictions outside of Elk County if needed,” Caltagarone added.

    Copper is the second K9 unit owned by the county. Prior to Copper’s arrival, Kudro served the county for eight years.

    Local law enforcement personnel see the new K9 unit as an asset to the area.

    Ridgway Police Chief Ralph Tettis said the department may utilize the police dog’s services in periodic locker searches, in which they are assisted by the Pennsylvania State Police.

    “The dog will help protect students from persons who conduct drug activities in our local school systems,” said Johnsonburg Police Chief Bryan Parana. “He is a great tool for drug detection.”

    According to Elk County Prison Warden Greg Gebauer the K9 unit can aid in the inspection of the prison, as is required by the state twice a year, searching work release inmates or tracking escaped inmates.

    Caltagarone emphasized the dog may be utilized to search for lost children, runaways or stray elderly residents.

    “The PSP appreciate the effort the county has put together in getting this project underway. It has proved to be a very valuable asset,” said PSP Trooper Steven Daniel.