SR-205-007 (14)
PD:JTB:KS:f:\police\share\staffrpt\k9carlo
Council Meeting: July 27, 2004 Santa Monica, California
TO: Mayor and City Council
FROM: City Staff
SUBJECT: Retirement and Disposition of Police Service Dog
Introduction
This report concerns the retirement of Police Canine Carlo, a twelve year-old
police service dog, and requests that the City Council approve the transfer of
ownership to his handler for one dollar.
Background
During the past eight and one-half years, Officer Mario Toti has been Police
Canine Carlo’s handler. During Carlo’s length of service, he has been involved in
numerous felony arrests and has received several commendations for his
capabilities. Carlo has also received commendations from other law
enforcement agencies for the assistance he has given them.
Discussion
Police Canine Carlo has reached the end of his active service life and is
scheduled to retire from the Canine Program because of medical problems
directly related to the aging process.
Since the inception of the Canine Program, it has been department policy to
transfer ownership of canines to their handlers for a nominal amount at the end
of their active service life. A staff survey of six other law enforcement agencies
that use canines affirms that they have the same policy. The policy is in the best
interests of the animal and relieves the City of potential liability. Council has
approved such transfers in the past when service dogs have reached an age, or
developed medical conditions, that prevent their continued service.
Funds for a replacement canine are available within the Police Department’s FY
2004-05 operating budget.
Budget/Financial Impact
There is no budget/financial impact. Officer Toti’s payment will be deposited to
Account #01304.407473 (Donations).
Recommendation
Staff recommends that Council authorize transfer of ownership of Police Canine
Carlo to Officer Mario Toti for the sum of one dollar.
Prepared by: James T. Butts, Jr., Chief of Police