Raccoon merchandise raises funds for Hanover animal shelter

Hanover County Animal Protection and Shelter has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars through merchandise inspired by a raccoon found in a Virginia liquor store, helping fund body cameras for animal protection officers and other shelter improvements. The county approved the camera program unanimously on October 28, with officers scheduled to begin using the equipment in January.

The campaign sold apparel and other items featuring the raccoon and the slogan “Trashed Panda.” Reports citing department chief Jeffrey Parker put proceeds at more than $290,000, while other accounts gave estimates of around $280,000 and $250,000. The reported totals vary, and the supplied accounts do not establish a final, dated accounting. The shelter’s typical annual donations are reported as less than $20,000.

Hanover County’s body-camera initiative is expected to cost about $65,000 over five years. Approximately $39,000 of the initial funding is to come from campaign proceeds, with the county covering service costs in the second through fifth years. Parker said the cameras will allow officers to record evidence for animal-abuse investigations and review complaints against officers. Previously,...