LORDSTOWN, Ohio - This demonstration shows some of the contributions a K-9 officer can add to a police department sniffing out illegal drugs that lead to death, and Lordstown Police say those skills will be helpful on traffic stops since Interstate 80 is a convenient route for drug traffickers.

"We are kind of centralized. They're going to be passing through to go to Warren. We get people from Youngstown, Campbell. We get people from out of state New Jersey, New York, Miami, and they're bringing, trafficking drugs or other illegal activities," said Brett Blank with Lordstown Police Department.

The canines do more than take a bite out of crime, a dual-trained dog can be instrumental not only in tracking criminals but can be used in searches and rescues.

They can help locate lost or missing persons.

With increasing business if there is an alarm drop the canine partner can be sent inside which can be instrumental in saving police officers' lives.

The department needs $25,000 to pay for the dog, special training for the canine officer, and cruiser requirements for the canine.

People who want to donate can stop by the Lordstown Police Department around the clock 7 days a week and drop off a check at the dispatch window.

The Police Department is located at 1583 Salt Springs Road, Lordstown Ohio 44481.

You can mail checks there. Police are asking that you make checks out to Lordstown Police Association.

Please put in the memo line which says for, K-9 Unit.

The Lordstown Police Association is a non-profit so donations can be tax-deductible.