Merrillville, Ind.-based Centier Bank donated $5,000 to the Griffith, Ind., Police Department to help purchase K-9 unit equipment for canine training in tracking wanted or missing persons, detecting illegal drugs and protecting the safety of police officers.
The unit includes dogs who are trained in obedience, protection and searches, tracking and criminal apprehensions to help law enforcement and fire service professionals across northwest Indiana and northeast Illinois. According to a press release, the program was launched a decade ago with all startup costs met by public donations.
“Community banking means that we are a true partner to all of the organizations and individuals who strive to enrich the lives of everyone in our community,” said Centier Bank Griffith Branch Manager Debi Gifford. “The Griffith Police Department’s K-9 unit provides an invaluable service to many communities in the area, and we are proud to support their efforts.”