Erie Police Dogs Confiscated

The Erie Police Department has confirmed that all three newly sworn in police dogs have been removed from duty. Bo, Atlas, and Deacon, the specially trained Belgian Malinois K9s, were taken into custody by local ICE agents.

This surprising move is a part of “Operation Patriotic Pooches,” a recently implemented program designed to prevent foreign dog breeds from taking jobs from homegrown American dogs. While Belgian Malinois are known to be exceptional law enforcement dogs, there is some concern about their origins in Europe.

“It’s definitely a blow to the department.” said Chief Daniel Spizarny. “Unfortunately, we were unable to produce proper AKC registrations to prove the dogs’ birthplaces. And it clearly says Belgian right there in the breed name.” Chief Spizarny could neither confirm nor deny reports that the three pups are already on a plane to Antwerp where they will be housed in a specialized kennel.

As for replacement K9 units, Spizarny said that three new dogs are already in place and getting to know their new handlers. “We had to go with an American breed.” he told us. Starting tomorrow three American Cocker Spaniels, Snuffles, Boo-Boo, and Pixie, will be hitting the streets with patrol officers.

Chief Spizarny told us that these new dogs will not be able to sniff drugs, chase or take down perps heavier than 75 pounds. “But gosh, they are really freaking adorable.”