GALION — The latest addition to the Galion Police Department introduced himself with a few barks during Tuesday night’s city council meeting. Basco, a law enforcement K-9, was sworn in by Police Chief Brian Saterfield.
Basco is a Belgian Malinois. He arrived in Galion last September and then received several weeks of training with Officer Tim Johnson, who serves as his handler. He is trained in narcotics detection, tracking, and building searches.
“His duty is to protect me and the other members of the police department,” Johnson said of his new partner. “Basco is aggressive when he’s working and very friendly when he knows he’s not working.”
Chief Saterfield also presented Basco with a police badge, which was donated by the family of Craig Taylor in his memory.
The implementation of a K-9 unit was made possible because of local businesses, clubs, organizations, and private donors who raised the necessary funds.
“He’s been a great addition. We are thankful to the entire community for the help,” Saterfield said.
