Fundraiser takes place supporting law enforcement K-9 Units in Yuma

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) - A fundraiser supporting local K-9 units took place in Yuma on Monday.

All month long, locals had the opportunity to purchase a rubber duck to participate in a race. The owner of the duck who wins the race would receive half of the pot with the other half going to a local charity.

The winner of this month's raffle Heather Jones along with the K-9 OPS Foundation both received $2,300.

The K-9 OPS Foundation is a local non-profit that provides law enforcement with training equipment, veterinarian visits, and much needed funds to help their K-9 units.

KC Hoffman, the President of K9 OPS, says, "We basically get a wish list from them and try to do all we can to help. We appreciate them. Their a huge help to our communities."

Two local handlers share the importance of having these furry companions at their side.

Sr. Deputy William Rice of the Yuma County Sheriff's Office says. "He's gone out there and found drugs that would've hit the community streets, so it's definitely very important to have him."

Officer Aaron Zaragoza of the Yuma Police Department adds, "Regardless of what it is, they can do things that we can't. It allows us to accomplish tasks that otherwise we couldn't without them."

But outside of work, these canines are still a man's best friend.

Sr. Deputy Rice shares, "He's been an absolute best friend to myself, my family, and other people in the department. He' been an absolute Godsend as a K-9 partner for sure."

"My partner's name is Barney. He's got his own personality. He's a big goofball just like his name suggests," explains Officer Zaragoza.

These fundraising events take place every month at The Lemon Grove near the Arizona Marketplace off of S Avenue 4E and E County 12th street.

The owner of the Lemon Grove says that next month's fundraiser will benefit the Yuma Child Burn Survivors Foundation.