Tuesday was supposed to be the day that a non-profit was scheduled to announce which police department around the nation would win a $500 grand prize in a K-9 photo contest.

However, Blue Line Unlimited suspended the contest earlier this month after learning that some entrants tried to manipulate the voting software system to garner additional votes for their K9, instead of casting one vote per person, per day.

“While it is extremely unfortunate to see this happening, especially in a law enforcement setting, these situations can often ruin the enjoyment for all parties involved - especially those who have tried to collect votes in a truthful manner,” said Blue Line in a statement.

Blue Line did not name those allegedly involved in the vote manipulation.

The organization, which helps first responders with training, equipment, and education, decided to place all of the entries on a random prize wheel to choose a grant winner, no matter what the vote count.

On February 20, Blue Line announced K9 Rexi with the Loxley, Alabama Police Department as the winner.

Here in the Valley, Struthers Police Department's K9 Recon, Columbiana County Sheriff's Office K9 Jimmy, Wellsville Police Department's K9 Mac and New Castle Police Department's K9 Frankie were all in the running for the prize.