Delaware County Sheriff's Office K-9 Division Receives State Funding

ALBANY, 07/05/15 – State Senator James L. Seward (R/C/I-Oneonta) and Senator John J. Bonacic (R/C/I – Mt. Hope) today announced $40,000 in state grant funding they secured for the Delaware County Sheriff’s Office.  The monies will be used for the purchase of a new police vehicle built specifically for use by the office’s K-9 drug and search rescue team.

Senator James L. Seward said, “Our rural police departments are faced with a number of challenges – fighting crime and keeping costs in check -  and providing them with the tools necessary to perform and ensure officer safety has always been a top priority of mine. Working in tandem with Senator Bonacic, we were able to maximize resources and deliver for Delaware County.”

Senator John J. Bonacic said,“I am pleased to have partnered with Senator Seward to secure this funding to purchase a new vehicle for the Delaware County Sheriff's Office K-9 Division, and their search and rescue team.  These funds will provide the sheriff’s office an additional tool in their fight to keep drugs off the streets, and protect the citizens of Delaware County.”

The Delaware County Sheriff’s Office is home to K-9 Officer Osman (Ozzie) Steele and his human partner,  Sergeant John Demeo.  Ozzie is trained in drug detection and patrol duties and has played an instrumental role in assisting officers in contending with the office’s escalating number of drug cases.  

Delaware County Undersheriff Craig S. DuMond said, “The senate grant obtained by Senator Seward and Senator Bonacic will provide essential equipment to aid our K-9 unit which is fast becoming a go-to resource in our fight against drug crimes.  At a time when our resources are already stretched thin, this is a purchase we wouldn’t be able to afford without this welcome grant.  Delaware County is fortunate to be represented by Senator Seward and Senator Bonacic.”

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