WASILLA — Alaska State Troopers are warning the public not to donate to fundraising sites created after a trooper dog named Helo was killed early Sunday during a pursuit.
He became the first trooper dog to die in the line of duty in Alaska.
The Alaska Department of Public Safety issued an advisory Tuesday morning: "Any site requesting funds regarding the deceased K9, no matter how well meaning the intent, are not done in coordination with, or approval of, the Department. These fundraising efforts may be fraudulent in nature. Please refrain from donating to these solicitations."
Several crowdfunding efforts popped up Sunday, including one apparently created by a Big Lake resident called "Help protect our AST K9S" that had raised $415 from 13 people in a day.
The site said its goal was to raise $1,075 to buy a stab- and bulletproof vest through Vested Interest in K9s Inc., a Massachusetts company that makes canine armor.
That same day, the site posted an update that said Vested Interest made it clear they don't use GoFundMe and requested the campaign be suspended. The site pledged to send any proceeds to the company.
The state's advisory made it clear the department "appreciates the condolences and overwhelming support that we have received from the public," but is not seeking monetary donations.
Troopers spokesperson Megan Peters said people might be sincere in setting up the sites but the agency has no way of controlling where the funds go.
The troopers are not soliciting donations, Peters said in an email. "If we replace the K9 we will look into our available funding sources."