In February, Owego Police Department member K-9 Maggie (K-9 Mag), and her partner, Officer Andrew Pike, were involved in a minor motor vehicle accident.<\/p>\n
Maggie and Pike did not suffer any injuries; however, the insurance company deemed the K-9 patrol car, a 2010 Ford Crown Victoria, a total loss.<\/p>\n
Officer Pike commented, \u201cThe accident was at a low speed impact and Maggie was secure inside her kennel.\u201d<\/p>\n
Officer Pike explained that the car had been a good running vehicle and made it through a remarkably rough winter, although it was showing its age. <\/p>\n
The police partners are currently cruising in a donated vehicle, and K-9 Mag is equipped in a safe, but temporary kennel provided by the K9 Kop Project. <\/p>\n
With a budget already stretched, options for a new K-9 patrol car pose a challenge. Weather conditions in Owego, such as snow-covered roads and a constant flood threat dictate a specific need, so a higher clearance vehicle with all-wheel-drive or four-wheel drive is desired.<\/p>\n
The Owego Police Benevolent Association has started a GoFundMe to help raise funds towards a new vehicle for the K-9 Maggie and Officer Pike duo. This includes a patrol vehicle and other specialized equipment necessary for training and deployment. Added in the mix are veterinary bills and other medical expenses.<\/p>\n
K-9 Mag has been in the spotlight for several months. Her journey began in 2018 when she was brought into the Town of Hempstead Animal Shelter as a stray. She was adopted, and then returned, twice.<\/p>\n
A door opened when Maggie passed required tests for a program called Homeless to Hero, and where the Binghamton, N.Y. nonprofit, the Southern Tier Police Canine Association (STPCA) evaluated Mag and determined she could be trained as a police canine. In turn, STPCA taught her the extensive skills needed for her career.<\/p>\n
It was the STPCA who donated K-9 Maggie to OPD, and so that she could safely serve the Village. The donation, at the time, included equipment to outfit her patrol vehicle.<\/p>\n
K-9 Mag has become a local celebrity, and Officer Pike says he has the best of both worlds. <\/p>\n