Yakima Police are hoping you'll help them restore the department's budget after it recently committed to spending $14,000 to purchase a new K-9 after the loss last year of police dog Havoc.

Police spokesman Mike Bastinelli says the department has taken $14,000 from the budget to make sure officers have four dogs working in the city. Bastinelli says the department is now hoping Yakima will help restore the city budget or cuts in the department will be necessary.

"The city has basically fronted the money, but it's not in the police budget and that's where we're hoping the public can help," Bastinelli says.

The department hopes to raise $14,000 for Covah, the dog that's already in training. Once Covah is finished with training and testing, the German shepherd will become the city's fourth K-9 officer.

One generous Yakima donor has already stepped forward to help. The anonymous donor will match public donations dollar for dollar -- up to $5,000.

If you'd like to make a donation, contact the Yakima Police Department at 575 6200 or Officer Jim Yates at 728-6449.

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