By Staff
Melissa Cason
RED BAY – If you look closely, you'll see something new at the Red Bay Police Department. It's not a new car or expensive electronic equipment, it's Unix, the department's new multipurpose canine officer.
Sgt. Scottie Belue said Unix is another resource the department has to serve the community. Unix is trained in drug detection and subject apprehension.
"Our team now we will have a much stronger role in drug and property seizures, apprehending bad guys and finding lost children, elderly, and even lost hikers in our area," Belue said.
Unix is a native of Hungry, and all his commands are Hungarian.
"Unix likes to work, but he also likes to play because he's still a puppy," Belue said.
Unix, a Sable German Sheppard, was trained in Hungry before being flown to Memphis and being transported to Tuscaloosa for training with Belue.
"They taught us how to work with the animal," Belue said. "And, we also bonded with our animals."
The funding for the police canine was through a grant from the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs (ADECA).
In addition to the grant, Belue said the department has been helped with the animal with other local donations for dog food, treats, and kennel materials.
"Thanks to all the area business and people for the dog food, treats and kennel materials for k9 officer Unix. It is greatly appreciated," Belue said."