The recent tragic death of Spike on , the beloved Burbank Police Department K9, has sparked a deep concern within our community. 

On November 22nd, Spike was deployed during a manhunt after a suspect fled a traffic stop on Buena Vista Street near the 5 Freeway, ran up the on-ramp, and hid in nearby bushes. Officers already suspected the man was armed, yet Spike was still sent in first to locate him — a decision that ultimately cost Spike his life. 

Spike's loss, especially under such circumstances, highlights a crucial need to reassess and potentially revise our current K9 deployment policies, specifically in situations involving armed suspects.

K9 officers like Spike play an invaluable role in law enforcement, providing essential skills in tracking, apprehension, and community engagement. However, their deployment in high-risk scenarios, where the threat of armed confrontation exists, raises important safety considerations for both the K9s and the officers.

This petition respectfully calls upon the Burbank City Council and the Burbank Police Department to review and update their K9 deployment policies. The aim is to ensure that all future deployments are conducted with maximum precaution, prioritizing the safety of both human officers and their canine partners. This could include increased training for officers to better assess risks and exploring the use of additional resources or technology to handle armed confrontations.

We can honor Spike's memory by working towards a safer environment for all K9 units. His tragic death can serve as a catalyst for positive change, ensuring that his sacrifice leads to improved protections.

This is an issue that affects not only those within law enforcement but also the broader community, who deeply care about the safety and well-being of our four-legged officers.

Please join me in urging the responsible authorities in Burbank, CA, to initiate this vital review by signing this petition. Our collective voices can help pave the way for necessary changes that will benefit everyone involved. Together, let's ensure that the legacy of K9s like Spike is honored with actionable and meaningful policy improvements.

Sign this petition to make a difference in K9 deployment policies in Burbank today.