* The original goal was reached and we will now focus on putting donations towards, treats, toys, bedding or other needs they may require. Since the town requested the bite equipment returned, we will look to purchase new bite equipment and scent detection training aids. This way they can still train and work on the things they enjoy.

K-9 Joker and K-9 Bane were retired from the Oakboro Police Department on Wednesday 9/4/2024. The police department is actively pursuing disbandment and turning it over to the Sheriff’s Office. As the K-9 handler for both K-9’s, I worked tirelessly to raise monies to care for them as a K-9 unit. I raised close to $30,000.00 and used $7,500.00 just last year to place a new kennel, heat alarm system and door popper in my new patrol unit, as the town couldn’t afford to do so. The account had a remain balance of about $19,000.00. I requested the town to maintain those funds and continue to pay the K-9’s yearly vet expenses, dog food costs and end of life cremation, when that time comes. Those funds budgeted, should last the lifetime of the K-9’s. Also included in that amount was over $5,000.00 for K-9 Joker should he ever require the surgery for his nerve issue. I was just informed this evening and I quote “K-9 funds  - these funds are part of the Town of Oakboro general funds and will be used to cover the prior year deficits in the general budget spent for K-9 unit/program.” The K-9 account in the general fund was not in a deficit in fact I saved the town thousands of dollars that were not spend, as it wasn’t even close to a deficit. Also a brand new bite suit was required to be turned in by a “board member” of the town, this item to was donated to me for the K-9’s. If the town no longer has a K-9 unit or a Oakboro Police Department, why was this requested by a board member, that is not a town employee.

These K-9’s served as patrol and community rolls. K-9 Joker was previously retired from patrol and assumed a Community K-9 roll. This was used to build lasting relationships within and outside the community. K-9 Joker visited schools, days cares, hospitals and other community organizations. K-9 Joker spread joy over the last three years with Toys for Tots, raising over $23,000.00 for kids throughout Stanly County.

I am heartbroken at the treatment being received and the lack of care or compassion for the K-9’s. I will now attempt to raise the funds on my own to ensure both of these K-9’s get the treatment and care they deserve.

Oakboro Mayor Christopher Huneycutt: [email protected]

Oakboro Town Administrator Georgia Harvey: [email protected]

Oakboro Board of Commissioners:

Bud Smith: [email protected]

Latoya Jackson [email protected]

Lanny Hathcock: [email protected]

Joey Carpenter: [email protected]

Brett Barbee: [email protected]

Respectfully,

Jason