K9 benefit hits goal, expect dogs in 2017

The Ashtabula County prosecutor's office recently donated $2,000 to a campaign to add dogs to the Conneaut Police Department roster. The money comes from the prosecutor's Law Enforcement Trust Fund, which consists of proceeds from court-ordered forfeiture of criminal assets and drug fines. Pictured, from left, are Matt Brainard and Darlyene Brisley, members of the K9 campaign; County Prosecutor Nicholas Iarocci and Conneaut Police Chief Michael Colby. A benefit dinner Saturday helped the campaign reach its $20,000 goal, organizers said.

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CONNEAUT — A campaign to raise money for two additional Conneaut Police Department canine units reached its $20,000 goal, organizers said.

A benefit dinner Saturday afternoon put the campaign over the top, said Darlyene Brisley, who launched the effort in late spring. 

"(The day) went great," she said.

Some 250 people turned out for the pasta dinner and car show at New Leaf Event Center, Brisley said. Heading into the event, the campaign had already raised $14,000 from donations alone.

The money will be used to purchase and train two dogs, plus modify police cruisers to accommodate the dogs. Conneaut Police Chief Michael Colby said the first step is to meet with officers who have expressed interest in becoming a canine handler. Dogs probably won't see duty until 2017, he said.

Colby praised Brisley and everyone connected with the canine initiative.

"It's great," he said. "It's the first time I can remember someone coming forward to help us like that. They did a great job in a short period of time."

The community's response to the appeal was also gratifying, Colby said. 

"It's obvious (residents of Conneaut) want police dogs," he said.

Brisley teamed with Eric Nesbitt and Matt Brainard to stage the donation program. Work began in earnest at the start of June. 

"In three months' time I think we did a good job," she said.

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