Town Council Had an Unusual Visitor Recently

The Clayton Town Council, which meets in formal session the first and third Monday of each month, usually is attended by residents and other visitors in the Council Chambers of the Clayton Center. Sometimes it's because they have business with the Council, and other times its just to watch.

But they don't get many animals.

That changed recently when a six-year-old Belgium Malinois named "Justice" came forward in the Council Chambers and, through his interpreter Police Officer Will McIntosh, introduced himself to the Council, then took his place in the back to stand guard during the Council meeting.

"Happy to have you here," Mayor Jody McLeod quipped.

Justice, who is highly trained in police K-9 skills, has been a fixture at the Clayton Police Department for the last four years. He's proficient in tracking, suspect apprehension, drug detection and handler protection. He and Officer McIntosh have been an item during his time here.

"Officer McIntosh was the officer assigned to the Council meeting that day," said Chief Glen Allen. "The dog is his partner and goes with him wherever he goes."