Homewood police dogs, officers part of state legislation signing

In early June, state leaders and Homewood police officers joined forces to put a new law on the books. A ceremonial signing of the new law with Governor Robert Bentley marked an historic day for police K9s and search and rescue dogs. It was also a proud moment for all Homewood citizens.

In October, Homewood K9 Officer Keith Smith contacted Rep. Paul DeMarco about a current law that failed to adequately protect working dogs in the line of duty.

With the support of Homewood resident attorney Tom Hale, who has been a long proponent of law enforcement safety, they lobbied to increase the protection afforded to these service animals, resulting in the creation of HB259. The law now makes interfering with or harming a police K9 or search and rescue dog a Class C Felony.

Officer Smith and his K9 partner, Shiloh, stood alongside Officer Jeremiah Mote and his K9 partner, Justice, as the governor signed the new bill. This brings Alabama’s law in line with others around the country.

-Submitted by Homewood Police Department