The Edina Police Department’s newest officer took to the streets in June 2010 – on all fours. After graduating from St. Paul’s renowned K-9 training program in 2009, Blade and his handler, Officer Jason Behr, began work. Blade, a German Shepherd born from a long bloodline of Slovakian police dogs, was imported to the United States as a puppy. Behr says Blade has already impressed him in the field and he looks forward to continuing work with his new partner.
Diesel has been with the Edina Police Department since 2006. A black German Shepherd imported from Slovakia, Diesel and his handler Officer Mike Seeger work the power shift from 2 p.m. to 2 a.m. Along with tracking, criminal apprehension and handler protection, Diesel is certified in narcotics.
Edina’s oldest K-9, Kodiak, retired in March after eight years with the Edina Police Department. During his career, Kodiak made a name for himself. Recognized by officers all over the metro area, Kodiak was also known nationally when he placed 12th out of 98 dogs in the 2007 National Detector Dog Trial. Kodiak’s handler Officer Kevin Rofidal says he can recall hundreds of incidents in the past eight years where without Kodiak the criminal would have gotten away. Kodiak is now living his “golden years” under Rofidal’s care at home.
Round-the-clock K-9 support has proved to be invaluable in conducting searches, tracking suspects and locating narcotics. K-9 Officers are funded solely by private contributions from our citizens. Please keep this in mind when considering a gift to the Edina Crime Prevention Fund.
Rewards and informant payments, funded solely by the Edina Crime Prevention Fund, will continue to be critical in solving crimes in Edina ranging from misdemeanors to majors felonies.
In 2008, the Edina Police Department re-established its Bicycle Patrol, funded solely by the Edina Crime Prevention Fund. Patrolling neighborhoods, parks and business areas on bicycle principally at night, this unit has had significant success making arrests for a variety of offense including narcotics, property damage, theft and underage drinking. It is our intent to continue to operate the unit with your financial support.
Supported by the Edina Crime Prevention Fund in partnership with the Edina Morningside Rotary, Junior Police includes classroom visits by and officer and a street safety talk. This spring, a girl in the Concord area credited Junior Police with giving her the skills that possibly prevented her abduction.
In 2008, the Edina Police Department added a Crime Prevention Specialist, Amy Grannes, to our staff. Amy is a former police officer who provides information and advice to residents, businesses and community groups. Her position is funded solely by the Edina Crime Prevention Fund. If you want Amy's assistance, please call her at 952-933-9523.
Through citizens' contributions, the Edina Police Department has been able to acquire new, up-to-date equipment not otherwise available through the City budget:
- Park Surveillance Equipment
Electronic surveillance systems in Edina's parks, funded solely by the Edina Crime Prevention Fund are responsible for decreased vandalism in our parks. Additional systems will be installed as needed to further protect our parks.
Edina's Crime Prevention Website, funded solely by the Edina Crime Prevention Fund, provides strategies and timely information you can use to protect person and property.
