Ephrata, PA — A new police K9 unit is set to take shape after more than $19,000 in drug forfeiture funds were awarded to the Ephrata Police Department, with officials confirming the dog could begin patrols as early as November.
The $19,315.77 check, presented by Lancaster County District Attorney Heather Adams, will fund the conversion of a new police cruiser specifically outfitted for K9 operations, according to Ephrata Police Chief Christopher McKim. The initiative marks a significant step for a department that has long sought to add a police dog to its ranks.
Funding tied directly to drug enforcement efforts
The donation comes from funds seized during drug-related investigations, including cash and assets forfeited through court-approved processes tied to illegal narcotics activity. Those resources are then redistributed to support law enforcement and community-based anti-drug initiatives across Lancaster County.
Adams said the investment is intended to strengthen frontline capabilities in combating drug trafficking.
“Our office is proud to support the Ephrata Police Department with this donation, which we know will make a tremendous difference in the fight against drug trafficking,” Adams said. “The Lancaster County Drug Task Force looks forward to continuing to collaborate with the Ephrata police to stop the distribution of deadly narcotics.”
For Ephrata police, the funding unlocks a capability that has remained out of reach for years.
McKim said the department is already in the process of acquiring a new cruiser, which will be modified for K9 use by 10-8 Emergency Vehicle Services in New Holland.
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Key Points
• $19,315 in drug forfeiture funds awarded to Ephrata Police for K9 unit
• Police dog expected to begin patrols by November after training
• Funds originate from assets seized in drug-related investigations
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Timeline set for dog acquisition and deployment
Beyond the vehicle, the department plans to purchase its first police dog from Iron Rose K9, a Cumberland County-based provider, later this summer. Training for both the canine and its handler is expected to begin in October.
If the timeline holds, the K9 unit will be operational within weeks of training completion.
The dog will be trained in dual roles: detecting narcotics and assisting in suspect apprehension—functions that significantly expand operational capacity during investigations and emergencies.
“Having a K9 allows us to add a tool to our toolbox that can enhance our capabilities and this contribution from DA Adams makes a huge difference,” McKim said.
Why K9 units matter in local policing
Police dogs are widely used in law enforcement due to their heightened sense of smell and ability to quickly locate drugs, evidence, or suspects in complex environments. McKim noted that even highly trained officers cannot match the detection abilities of a properly trained K9.
In practical terms, that means faster searches, stronger evidence collection, and improved officer safety during high-risk situations.
The addition also reflects a broader strategy within Lancaster County to reinvest proceeds from drug crimes back into enforcement and prevention. Forfeiture funds are not limited to equipment—they can also support rehabilitation and community outreach programs.
In 2025, the District Attorney’s Office distributed similar funds to several local organizations, including $10,000 to ReStart Training Center Ministry, $10,000 to the Donegal Substance Abuse Alliance, and $40,000 to the Lancaster Safety Coalition.
Community and departmental support
While the forfeiture funds provide a major financial boost, McKim emphasized that the K9 initiative has also relied on local support.
He credited the Friends of the Ephrata Police Foundation for helping raise awareness and additional funding for the program, calling their efforts critical in moving the project forward.
The combination of public support and county-level funding has accelerated a plan that might otherwise have taken years to implement.
What happens next
With the cruiser purchase underway and the dog acquisition scheduled for summer, the department’s focus will soon shift to training and certification—key steps before the K9 can be deployed in the field.
The program represents both a tactical upgrade and a symbolic milestone for the department, signaling expanded capabilities in drug enforcement and public safety.
As of now, Ephrata Police expect the K9 unit to be fully operational by November, pending completion of training and equipment preparation.
