The Bristol Police Board recently voted to approve a volunteer effort spearheaded by local businessman, Philip S. Vonella to solicit donations for the Bristol Police Department’s K-9 Fund. The charity, known as Operation Opioid, is aimed at curbing the epidemic in our community.
“With such an emphasis on the Opioid Public Health Crisis, we are happy to have another initiative to bolster our efforts locally,” stated Mayor Ellen Zoppo-Sassu in a press release. “We currently have a Task Force of over 35 people from all different aspects of our community who have been touched by the crisis. If we have two more dogs trained to
track and remove deadly drugs from the street, and thus the distribution networks, that is a win for everyone.”
Vonella, a local resident, has embarked on the challenge to raise $50,000 toward the cause. Funds collected will be used to purchase two German Shepherds, trained at the Connecticut State Police Academy, for Narcotics Detector Purposes. “I have chosen to fully dedicate myself to this initiative and am reaching out to all residents of Bristol to support this cause,: said Vonella in a press release. “Every donation, large or small is equally important. Together, we can make a difference.”
“Our K-9 teams play a crucial role in our efforts to make the City of Bristol a safer place to live, work and visit. Whether it is searching for narcotics, apprehending suspects and/or conducting missing person’s searches, our K-9’s and their handlers require extensive training, supplies and veterinary care. This fundraising endeavor from the public helps make this a reality. I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Phil Vonella for seeing this through,” stated Bristol Police Chief Brian Gould in a press release.
Donations may be made payable to: Bristol Police Department K-9 Fund, c/o Operation Opioid, P.O. Box 113, Bristol, CT 06011-0113.