Tune into my show on BCTV tonight when the president, Paulette Williams, and vice-president, Keith Claytor, of the Friends of the Reading Police K-9 Unit will be discussing the current and future plans for the Reading K-9 Unit.
The Reading K-9 Unit has been in the news lately over a dispute between the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) and the Reading City Police Chief William M. Heim over who should qualify to be a dog handler for the K-9 Unit. This came to light after three officers filed a grievance saying they were passed over for three other officers who had less seniority.
What qualifies a police officer to become a dog handler- seniority or someone who has more experience? That is at the root of the problem. The District Attorney has become involved as well as the the County Commisssioners.
Hopefully, a resolution can be made in the very near future. Three more dogs and the handlers are at stake here to keep the city of Reading a safer place for its citizens. And that is what matters most.
The show will not focus on this matter but will instead talk about the current K-9 Unit and all of the good work they have accomplished and how this unit is vital to the city of Reading.
Tune in tonight at 8PM on Ch. 13 (Comcast) and Ch. 19 (Service Electric).
Callers are always welcome during the live show. The number to call during the program is 610-378-0426.