In 1998, Metropolitan Nashville Police Officer Terry Burnett, and his dog, Aron, encountered an armed & dangerous bank robber. During an exchange of gunfire, K9 Aron was shot several times; he later died.
The Bill, Aron’s Law, was prompted by Franklin Police K9 Officer Brett Spivy and sponsored by Representative Jeremy Durham. Friday, Governor Haslam signed that Bill into Law, making the intentional killing of a police, fire, or search and rescue animal a felony offense.
“Officer Spivy’s love for animals, passion for police work, and tenacity to make a difference have accomplished something that the Department is very proud of,” said Chief Deborah Faulkner. “He had a vision, and with help from other caring people, including Representative Jeremy Durham, he has seen that vision through. Well done, Officer Spivy.”
Last month the Department honored Spivy with the Impact Award, given to the officer who demonstrates creative and innovative thinking and implements a plan of action that has a notable impact on the law enforcement profession. Williamson County resident and Country Music Icon Naomi Judd co-presented the award with Chief Faulkner. “I was honored to meet Officer Spivy at the Tennessee Legislature, where we both had the opportunity to testify on behalf of Aron’s Law,” said Judd.“These animals are courageous, and extremely special to law enforcement and the communities they serve.”
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