ENID, Okla. — Area law enforcement officers, friends and family gathered Friday afternoon to say goodbye to
K-9 Officer Rex. Rex served more than eight years with Enid Police Department, beginning in April 2002
and retiring in October 2010. He passed away Dec. 14, 2013. He was 13 years old. The service for Rex began with a
prayer by Enid Police Department Officer Aaron Barber. Chief Brian O’Rourke welcomed those in attendance and
thanked them for their support. He said there are few people who know the impact a police dog can have on
a department and its handler.
“There are a lot of people in the community who don’t understand how important a police dog is to the community,’ he said.
“But we all do.” O’Rourke shared some of Rex’s career stats: more than $25,000 in cash seized; a street
value of more than $660,000 for the drugs he located and which were seized; and 496 arrests. “Rex did
an outstanding job for our department,” the chief said. “It’s important that we are here today to honor him and
his service.” Waukomis Christian Church pastor Dave Jones delivered a eulogy for Rex, written from the
canine’s perspective. Jones spoke as Rex, recalling being taken from the Czech Republic to his trainer Rick Ramsey
in Arizona. Rex spoke of his time with partner Officer Ryan Fuxa, tracks they conducted and narcotic busts they
shared. “Rex” also spoke of a few incidents involving other Enid Police Department officers, offering several
apologies for errant bites or accidental contact with officers. Jones said he also had the pleasure of
knowing Rex and the Fuxa family. He said he had taken a few “accidental nibbles” from the retired K-9 officer.
Jones also read a poem popular among police K-9 handlers titled “Guardians of the Night.” The poem is
about the relationship between a dog and its handler. It ends with the line, “If we should meet again on
another street, I will gladly take up your fight, I am a police working dog and together we are guardians of
the night.” Sgt. Quent Tubbs and Officer Kelly Smith presented the Fuxa family — Ryan, Marla, Tucker and
Wyatt — with a flag following a slideshow featuring photographs of the K-9 at work and at play.
The ceremony ended with Jones offering a prayer. He said those in attendance take notice of Rex’s obituary.
submitted by Jim Cortina, Dir. CPWDA
In Loving Memory of
K9 ROCKO
December 30, 2013
Gautier Police Department
3330 U.S. 90
Rocko, Gautier police dog, dies after developing cancer
Rocko, a Gautier police dog who helped catch fugitives and seized nearly $1 million in drug money, has died.
Rocko was euthanized Monday after being diagnosed with an aggressive form of cancer, according to the
Gautier Police Department. At 10 a.m. Friday, a memorial brick will be laid at the Veterans Tribute tower
in honor of Rocko's service to the city. "This is a sad day for our officers and for the citizens of Gautier.
Not only have we lost a co-worker, but also a family member," Police Chief Dante Elbin said. "Rocko was
a tremendous asset to the department and we will miss him immensely."
Rocko joined the Gautier Police Department in October 2007, after the community made donations to purchase
him for $12,500. Rocko was trained and certified in narcotics detection, tracking, suspect search, evidence
search, obedience, agility (obstacle course), criminal apprehension and handler protection. Rocko and
handler Lt. Derrick Welton are credited with the apprehension of a federal fugitive, residential burglars,
home-invasion suspects and drug offenders and the recovery of evidence. Rocko and Welton have seized
nearly $1 million in drug money, and Rocko's largest single cash seizure totaled $514,990.
Rocko also made annual appearances for the children at area schools, doing K-9 demonstrations during
Red Ribbon Week. "The visits he paid to them gave that personal connection between the children
and police that is so hard to establish," Welton said. "The children adored him. They couldn't remember
a thing about me, but they remembered Rocko."
submitted by Jim Cortina, Dir. CPWDA
In Loving Memory of
K9 RYLO
2013
Handler: Officer Garth Selong
21012 Hilliard Blvd
Cleveland, OH 44116
Rylo was remembered in photos during the memorial service. Dec. 5, 2013
Rylo's collar and other items were displayed during a memorial service for the Rocky River police dog.
An honor guard was part of the memorial service for Rylo, a member of Ricky River's K-9 unit.
Bob Kish, a bagpiper from the Cleveland Police Pipes and Drums, leads a line of police dogs
into a memorial service for Rylo, the first dog in Rocky River's K-9 team.
Rylo, the first dog in the Rocky River Police Department's K-9 unit, died Nov. 12 and was remembered today
during a service that drew police dogs and their handlers from other area departments. Rylo, whose partner was
Officer Garth Selong, died last month after 10 years of service. Rocky River has another police dog, Diego,
and a puppy in training named Apollo.Bagpiper Bob Kish of the Cleveland Police Pipes and Drums, led the
line of dogs and officers into Rocky River's civic center where the memorial service took place.
Rocky River Councilman Thomas Hunt, on behalf of the city administration and council, read a proclamation
honoring Rylo for his service and courage. And Rocky River Police Chief Kelly Stillman lauded both the
dog and Selong, saying, "Rylo would go into harm's way so we didn't have to." The chief also said that
Rylo served as his department's ambassador to the community, especially while visiting schools.Tom
Schmidt of Buckeye Area Regional K-9 donated Rylo to the Rocky River department and trained him.
"Very, very seldom do you come across a dog that's that tough and that sociable," he said.
Selong, wiping away tears, said that Rylo had changed people's perceptions of what a police dog is and "was one
of the best friends I ever had." After the service, he said he was still adjusting to life without his partner.
"There are lots of things, like the sound of his tail wagging, hitting the metal when I came back to
the car. I miss that sound," Selong said. Rocky River Police Lt. Larry Stalter said he wants people to
remember that "Rylo always had our backs" during traffic stops and that the German shepherd was
an important part of the department.
The Rev. Charles Eduardos, the police chaplain and a former officer, said "Rylo was just cool" and
said he hoped the memorial service helped bring closure for Selong and his family, who had raised
Rylo since he was a puppy. Stillman brought more than a few people in the audience to tears when he
radioed back to the station in a last call for Rylo that was audible to the crowd. The dispatcher called
three times for "K-9 Rylo" before reporting, "Negative contact. End of watch, Nov. 12, 2013. Station out."
submitted by Jim Cortina, Dir. CPWDA
In Loving Memory of
K9 RICHTOR
October 2013
 
Handler: Officer Godfrey
Nacogdoches Sheriff's Office
2306 Douglass Rd.
Nacogdoches, TX 75964
Nacogdoches Co. Sheriff's Office confirms death of K9 officer
On Thursday, the Nacogdoches Sheriff's Office confirmed that Richtor, the K9 officer, died at the home of
Chief Deputy Stephen Godfrey two months ago. It was later determined that the dog died of a heart attack.
Nacogdoches County Sheriff Jason Bridges said the NCSO kept the matter quiet because the dog had
become like a member of Godfrey's family. According to a press release, Richtor, a German shepherd, was born
in the Czech Republic in 2005, and he was imported by Adlerhorst International. After he was flown from
Riverside, California, Richtor met Godfrey at DFW Airport.
At the time, Godfrey was working for the Nacogdoches Police Department. He was assigned to narcotics
interdiction along U.S. Highway 59. The press release said he needed a partner for protection and for
locating contraband when it was stashed in hidden compartments. "Richtor was selected from literally hundreds
of police K9's but since Godfrey had handled a K9 for the majority of his 20 year career Godfrey knew what
he was looking for in a K9," the press release said. "Without a doubt, Richtor fit the model of the
K9 Godfrey desired. "
Richtor had never been inside a home before he was introduced to Godfrey, the press release stated. The dog
literally pranced when he walked on carpet for the first time. The KP officer became like part of Godfrey's
family, but he knew it was time for business when he loaded up for work. Godfrey and Richtor were
certified with Alderhorst International and passed with very high marks, according to the press release
even though Texas K9 officers are not required to be certified. Godfrey and Richtor started patrolling
together in 2007.
The press release stated that on numerous occasions when the pair made drug busts and seized narcotics,
suspects admitted they might have tried to attack Godfrey if Richtor hadn't been there. "Godfrey and
Richtor made substantial seizures of narcotics as a team totaling thousands of pounds of marijuana, hundreds
of pounds of cocaine, and hundreds of pounds of other illegal narcotics," the press release stated. "The
single largest seizure of marijuana made by the team was 868 pounds. The largest single cocaine seizure was
88 pounds, and the single largest currency seizure was $180,000 in United States currency."
The press release stated that Richtor was the first K9 officer in Texas to be used to search the exterior of
a residence to establish of probable cause for a search warrant. When Richtor hit on the presence of narcotics,
it allowed a search warrant to be issued by a federal court, and it resulted in a "substantial" seizure of
narcotics and currency. Godfrey left the Nacogdoches Police Department to serve as chief deputy when
Bridges was elected sheriff in January 2013. When Nacogdoches County District Attorney Nicole Lostrocco
heard that the K9 team was going to be split up, she purchased Richtor from the NPD and assigned him to
Bridges' constable's office until he took office as sheriff in January 2013.
"The district attorney was aware of every case the team had made and began to negotiate to keep the
team together," the press release stated. As a result, Godfrey was allowed to remain the caretaker
and handler for Richtor. They were on an on-call basis for all of Nacogdoches County. "Richtor's death
has left a huge void in the Godfrey family," the press release stated. "Godfrey stated that the night
that Richtor was buried, his 9 year old son buried his favorite baseball beside K9 Richtor."
According to a previous East Texas News story, before he resigned in June 2012, Godfrey had been
serving as the chief officer of the Nacogdoches Police Department's K9 unit since 2009, when the NPD
received a grant for its drug interdiction program. At the time, Nacogdoches Police Chief Jim Sevey
said that Godfrey was put in charge of the program and given Richtor with the understanding that he could
resign from the department after three year if another law enforcement agency would purchase Richtor
for $10,000. Sevey said the dog was listed on the department's roster and was owned by the city.
Sevey said he lost a good officer when Godfrey left the NPD. "He has a lot of training, a lot of experience,
and I hated to see him go. And, I hated to see him separated from Richtor," Sevey said.
submitted by Jim Cortina, Dir. CPWDA
In Loving Memory of
K9 RALEIGH
November 12, 2013
 
Handler: Sgt. Michael Almeranti
Grosse Pointe Police Department
17145 Maumee Ave
Grosse Pointe, MI
Police K9 Raleigh Passes Away
K-9 Officer Raleigh, an eight-year veteran of the City of Grosse Pointe Public Safety Department, died Tuesday.
The City of Grosse Pointe Public Safety Department lost a member of their "team" with the death of K9 officer Raleigh.
Public Safety Director Stephen Poloni said the German Shepherd said Raleigh died Tuesday. He was assigned to
Sgt. Michael Almeranti. The K-9 officer was born in the Czech Republic in 2004, and joined the department in 2005.
During his tenure, he received a number of recognitions and commendations including being named Officer of the
year in 2006, and in 2010 he received a department citation from Harper Woods for his assistance in the arrest
of an armed robbery suspect. Poloni added that Raleigh participated in at least 65 tracks of suspects in home
invasions, arson, car theft and fleeing police in cases in the City of Grosse Pointe and neighboring communities.
One of his most recent busts was assisting COMET in Macomb County and found $15,000 in cash and drugs.
"It's tough to lose party of your team," said Poloni, who added the death had been "tough" on his handler.
"He will be sorely missed." submitted by Jim Cortina, Dir. CPWDA
In Loving Memory of
K9 RINGO
November 8, 2013
Handler: Ofc. Shawn Preasmyer
Newport Beach, CA
Officer says sad goodbye to canine partner
Shawn Preasmyer says putting down Ringo, a Dutch Shepherd and member of the Newport force, was tough.
- Officer Shawn Preasmyer and Ringo worked as a team in the Newport Beach Police Department's canine unit since 2007. Preasmyer and the department said goodbye to Ringo last week who had retired in 2009 because of back problems.
(Courtesy Newport Beach Police Department / DAILY PILOT / August 25, 2007)
Newport Beach Police Officer Shawn Preasmyer remembers the day six years ago when he brought home a new partner — and
a new roommate. It was pouring rain as he set up a kennel for Ringo, the Dutch Shepherd who would live with
him for a few weeks before a training program would match them up for good. Ringo was Preasmyer's
first canine partner but he joined another dog at home that day. The officer remembers Ringo meeting
his chocolate Labrador retriever. "The lab spins around on him and kind of says, 'We're going to be friends,
but I'm going to rule the back yard,'" Preasmyer said. Ringo retired from the police force in
October 2009, but on Nov. 8 of this year, the department and Preasmyer said a permanent goodbye.The officer reminisced this week about Ringo, so far his only canine partner, who was euthanized earlier this month at
13 years old. "We lost a part of our family when Ringo had to be put down," Newport Beach police spokeswoman,
Jennifer Manzella said as Preasmyer showed off the dog's badge and identification card. The Newport Beach
Police Department staffs two canine officers. The dogs and handler are assigned together for the life of the dog.
They live, work and train together. They are on call 24 hours a day to search for fugitives or drugs.
"One of my last narcotics searches was a search for CHP and [Ringo] found a bunch of heroin, maybe a pound or so,
stuffed behind the dash," Preasmyer reminisced. In 2007, Ringo was without a partner after his handler left
because of an injury, and Preasmyer decided to try out for the position. After six weeks of training with Ringo,
the two were bonded.
Ringo was eager to follow the officer's commands and be rewarded with a floppy toy Frisbee or other
encouragement. "You have to get down on the ground to basically talk baby talk to these dogs," Preasmyer said,
explaining how officers motivate their charges. Because they're such a small crew, police canine
handlers are a tight-knit brotherhood in Orange County, said Officer Mike Fletcher, Newport's other K-9 handler.
He and Preasmyer train with handlers from nearby agencies. An Irvine police handler, Officer Bob Smith, has
a reputation for concocting the most extreme training scenarios. Fletcher and Preasmyer have used
harnesses to lower their dogs from the side of a bridge into water, where a target was waiting to be bitten,
and sent them into waste-deep ocean water to practice apprehending a suspect. Ringo was an especially
eager dog, Preasmyer said. He remembers his charge's ears pricking up at the slightest ping from a patrol car radio.
During a search for a kidnapping suspect on the Balboa Peninsula, Preasmyer put Ringo into the back of Smith's
car for a rest while they took another dog out.
By Jeremiah Dobruck -submitted by Jim Cortina, Dir. CPWDA
In Loving Memory of
K9 ROSCOE
May 1, 2013
 
Texas Department of Criminal Justice, Texas
End of Watch: Wednesday, May 1, 2013
K9 Roscoe was struck and killed by a vehicle on I-45, in Leon County, while assisting in the search for a subject who fled
on foot during a traffic stop. Several agencies were requested to assist in the search, and a team of tracking dogs
was sent from the Texas Department of Criminal Justice's Boyd Unit. The tracking team located the subject at
the end of a service road near the interstate at approximately 7:00 pm. Roscoe was struck and killed by a
vehicle moments later. One pound of marijuana was located in the subject's car. He was subsequently charged
with interfering with a service animal, evading arrest, and possession.
submitted by Jim Cortina, Dir. CPWDA
In Loving Memory of
K9 ROSCOE
October 2013
Handler: Cpl. Ezra Padgham
Fort Myers Police Department
Ft. Myers, FL
Fallen Fort Myers police dog remembered
In Loving Memory of
K9 RONNY
September 4, 2013
 
Handler: State Police Sergeant Jerry Molet
Massachusetts State Police Dept.
address
Ronny, a Czechoslovakian shepherd, was State Police Sergeant Jerry Molet’s partner for seven years.
Molet later adopted the dog.
There was something about the boxy face, the black and silver fur. He’s the one, Jerry Molet knew, right away.
He’s my partner. “He really stood out,” said Molet, a Massachusetts State Police sergeant. And so it was, cop and dog.
Sniffing out drugs. Finding missing children. For seven years, Ronny the Czechoslovakian shepherd and
Molet were partners. Ronny retired two years ago, going to live with his work partner. On Wednesday,
the proud dog died from a disease that limited his mobility, leaving him confined to a cart with wheels
to get around. “Ronny was a great dog,” Molet said. “I could always count on him.”Molet had plucked Ronny
from 25 eligible K-9 dogs in 2004. The two worked mostly in central and western Massachusetts.
Just before his retirement, Ronny sniffed out five kilos of heroin, worth about $60,000, hidden in
a car in Sturbridge. In 2009, he helped subdue a man threatening to shoot himself on Interstate
495 in Marlborough. In another episode, Ronny helped recover from the woods a 14-year-old boy who
had severe asthma. One time, Ronny discovered a fugitive hidden inside a box spring mattress. Ronny, said Molet,
“was fearless and dedicated. He had the desire to work.” The dog assisted Molet on several hundred calls
a year. But it wasn’t all work for the cop and the dog. There was play, too. After a successful call,
Ronny got a rubber ball, catch being one of his favorite pastimes. In retirement, Ronny waited
patiently while Molet went on calls, hoping to take a seat beside him in the cruiser. Molet took the dog on
walks and hid things so Ronny could sniff them out. Molet would like to create a pet cemetery for
K-9 dogs, so they can receive the honor they deserve.
submitted by Jim Cortina, Dir. CPWDA
In Loving Memory
MW RANDY
550th MWD Det.
September 13, 2013
Handler: DA Officer Betchel
16 MP Brigade
submitted by Jim Cortina, Dir. CPWDA
In Loving Memory of
K9 RAMBO
September 2, 2013
Handler: Patrolman Kevin Cluck
Dexter Police Department
305 Cooper St.
Dexter, MO 63841
Farewell to Rambo - It was a job well done
Rambo, the Dexter Police Department's canine unit serving the force since 2005, died on Labor Day after a brief illness. He is shown with his handler, Patrolman Kevin Cluck, in a photo taken in February 2011.
The Dexter Police Department bid farewell to one of its finest on Monday. The department's canine unit, Rambo, a nine-year-old German Shepherd who came to the department in 2006, died of what was believed to have been lymphoma. Rambo's handler and caretaker was Patrolman Kevin Cluck. When Cluck agreed to be Rambo's keeper, he couldn't have imagined the role the dog would play in his life and that of his wife, Meghan's. "I remember thinking when I got him that I wouldn't ever get really attached. I told myself he was just a dog," Cluck recalled. "But when you're with a dog every day and every night for nearly five years, you get attached. It truly leaves a void."
Rambo began showing signs of ill health about seven weeks ago, Cluck says. Visits to a local veterinarian and subsequent visits to specialists resulted in a "probable" cancer diagnosis. Blood tests were conducted and x-rays were taken, and on Thursday, Aug. 30, after he refused to eat and was further deteriorating, local veterinarian Dr. Kate Dannar, then operated on Rambo to remove his spleen. He died Sunday at his handler's home in Dexter. "I can't say enough about the fine care that all the doctors gave Rambo in his final days," Cluck said Wednesday.
"And the understanding and cooperation of Chief (Sammy) Stone who sympathized with the loss for the department, but also with our personal loss." Cluck was allowed periodic time off to transport the dog to doctor's appointments. But also seeing to his needs and with him in the end was Cluck's wife, Meghan. "While I worked at night, she was the one who took care of him," Cluck noted. She made sure he had his medicine and made him comfortable. She's going to miss him as much as I will." Like most dogs that work in the law enforcement field, Rambo arrived in Dexter via Czechoslovakia. Police dogs are universally trained there in the German language. In Czechoslovakia, Cluck explained, German Shepherds are bred to be working dogs rather than pets as they are in the United States.
Once brought to Missouri in 2006, Rambo underwent training at Riverview Canine in Cape Girardeau, where nearly all police dogs in the state are trained. He originally trained with former Patrolman Wes Warrick, who was eventually deployed overseas. In his absence, Cluck underwent training himself with Rambo at Cape Girardeau and took over the canine duties. The dog came to the department at a significant cost, the majority of which came through local donations. While his purchase price was $5,500, ongoing training for Rambo cost about $3,000 annually. Although in the end Rambo was valued at more than $25,000, Cluck said the cost was worth his credibility.
"It's a lot of money," he attested in the past, "but if you had just one elderly person or one small child who wandered off and Rambo was able to track and find them -- you have to consider the kind of price tag you put on that." Rambo indeed played a vital role in numerous arrests and investigations during his tenure with Dexter Police, and was often called upon to assist the Stoddard County Sheriff's Office and the Highway Patrol following the loss of the county's canine unit in 2010. While on the job, Rambo was known as an "all business" canine. No one knew the softer side of the dog like the Clucks did.
When Badge 925 was put on the shelf at the end of a work shift, Rambo became the family pet -- romping and playing and putting his business sense aside until his next shift. The Clucks expressed their personal thanks to the community for all of the messages they have received following the loss of Rambo. Because of the significant expense associated with the purchase and continual training of a police dog, it is not yet known if or when Rambo will be replaced. In spite of the loss, Cluck says he'd gladly take on the roll of handler once again.
submitted by Jim Cortina, Dir. CPWDA
In Loving Memory of
K9 RIK
August 11, 2013
Handler: Officer Derrick Danner
Orange County, CA
submitted by Jim Cortina, Dir. CPWDA
In Loving Memory of
K9 RIKY
July 28, 2013
Handler: Officer Eric Gwaltney
Streator Police Department
204 S. Bloomington Street
Streator, IL 61364
WEBSITE - http://www.ci.streator.il.us/police-department.
Streator's newest police dog dies unexpectedly
One of Streator's two police dogs, Riky, died this weekend of natural causes. Riky, a German shepherd, had been with the force since June. He was being boarded at Eastside K-9 Pet Lodge this weekend while his handler, Officer Eric Gwaltney, was out of state with his family. Streator Police Chief Kurt Pastirik said Riky died of hemorrhagic gastroenteritis, a sudden-onset episode of diarrhea, often very bloody in nature. Some dogs may vomit. While the exact cause is unknown, there are many theories, including stress as a role in the development of HGE. The disease may affect any breed, gender and age.
"It's an unfortunate situation, not only for Officer Gwaltney, but for the department and community, "Pastirik told The Times on Tuesday. Pastirik said Peggy Rizzo, owner of Eastside and a licensed humane investigator with the state, checked on Riky on Saturday, July 27, at 9:15 p.m., and he appeared fine. When she opened the kennel at 6:15 a.m. Sunday morning, Riky had appeared with a medical condition. Rizzo contacted Countryside Animal Clinic's emergency number and drove Riky to the clinic. Pastirik was notified of the situation via text message and went to the clinic.
The dog died around 2 p.m. Sunday afternoon. He was cremated, and his remains were turned over to Gwaltney. Riky was born in October 2011. A necropsy was performed on Riky, and Pastirik said Robert Harms, veterinarian at Countryside, said there is no blood test to detect the condition. "Peggy Rizzo and her facility ... had nothing to do with the death of Riky, in no way, shape or form," Pastirik emphasized. "She runs a wonderful facility out there. Countryside did everything they could to save this dog."
Riky and Fips, the city's other drug-detecting dog, were purchased with donations from the Streator Substance Abuse Prevention Coalition. Riky cost $11,750. Pastirik has been in contact with Controlled F.O.R.C.E. in Leland, and Riky is covered under full warranty. "We are getting another dog from them, "Pastirik said. "They are searching for one of similar investigative quality to Riky. (Controlled F.O.R.C.E) feel absolutely terrible this happened. They're wonderful." Pastirik said in the 17 working days Riky was on the force, he assisted in 12 arrests.
submitted by Jim Cortina, Dir. CPWDA
In Loving Memory of
K9 RIGGS
July 22, 2013
Handler: Officer Mark Phelps
Chester Police Department
Chester, Vermont
Police dog, trained in narcotics detection, dies
Mark Phelps and Riggs, of the Chester Police Department, appear in a photo at Chester-Andover Elementary School.
The Chester Police Department bade farewell to their one and only police dog last week. Detective Mark Phelps said that Riggs, the department’s faithful German shepherd, died peacefully July 22. He was 13 years old. Riggs was the town’s first K-9 unit and lived a long life and retired one year before he died. Phelps, who was also Riggs’ handler, said the dog was named after Los Angeles Police Department narcotics officer Martin Riggs played by actor Mel Gibson in the series of “Lethal Weapon” movies.
According to Phelps, Riggs was brought on specifically for narcotics detection and to visit children at local schools.
Phelps trained with Riggs at the Vermont Police Academy, saying he performed well in the field and always enjoyed visiting students. “He was really motivated for doing drug searches. But when you took him into a classroom, you could let him go and he’d walk around with kids they would pet and play with him,” Phelps said. Riggs joined the Chester Police Department in 2002. Ludlow police used Riggs for searching suspicious vehicles and local buildings. Ludlow Police Chief Jeffrey Billings said Riggs was useful in all situations and played a role in preventing crime in Ludlow.
“He could get into spots where we couldn’t and find the stuff we needed. I don’t think you could put a dollar amount on (Riggs’) value,” Billings said. One of Riggs’ major accomplishments was searching a suspicious vehicle years ago in Proctorsville. According to Phelps, Riggs detected $55,000 in cash, large amounts of cocaine and illicit drugs and it was a major bust in the Black River Valley. Chester police do not intend to replace Riggs, Phelps said. Vermont State Police in Rockingham and the state Department of Motor Vehicles now have K-9 units, while Springfield and Brattleboro Police Departments have new police dogs in training.
Phelps said Riggs was cremated and his family will spread some of his ashes in their backyard where they often went snowshoeing. “We’ll spread some of them up there and we’ll keep some of them as well,” Phelps said. “A lot of patrol dogs are a little more aggressive but we specifically wanted a social dog because it’s a small community and we wanted him to engage with the community. He was laid back and mellow. But when it was time to go to work, Riggs flipped on the switch and he was ready.”
submitted by Jim Cortina, Dir. CPWDA
In Loving Memory of
K9 ROO
June 26, 2013
 
Handler: PC Jim Hampson
UK
Mourning the loss of a canine colleague
We are mourning the loss of a former and very well-known member of the Constabulary who passed away yesterday. With over 202 arrests to his name in the space of only one year, he received a commendation for his outstanding arrest rate, not bad for a 5-year-old. Police Dog Roo sadly passed away in the arms of his owner on Wednesday June 26th, after four years of well-earned retirement. He left the force in December 2009 after a prestigious six-year career with his handler, PC Jim Hampson. Having completed his training in April 2004, PD Roo and PC Hampson served in the Dog Unit for two years during which time they won the Paul Cannon Memorial Trophy, awarded for dog team that has made the best advances in training and handling over the year.
They also achieved the highest arrest rate for a dog team in the force, won commendations for bravery and Roo, who became a bit of a celebrity both in and outside the organization, was known by name by everyone from new recruits to the Chief Constable. In 2006, Jim and Roo were selected to work on the force's Tactical Crime Unit, where they continued their highly successful partnership for four years, receiving numerous good work reports, letters of thanks and media coverage. Roo also became responsible for over 70% of the force's overall canine catches or "bites" as they are known.
PC Hampson said: "Roo was an absolutely brilliant police dog - the perfect partner. He was totally driven and exceptionally brave - saving my life on more than one occasion. He became a bit of a legend in the force." Inspector Andy Roebuck, who is currently in charge of the force's dog unit, said: "Police dogs are vital to operational policing and are extremely effective in a wide range of situations from searching, detecting people, drugs or explosives to crowd control and detaining criminals. "Not every dog we start training makes it through to become an operational dog, it takes a lot and Roo was one of the best."
Police dogs live with their handlers at home, often becoming part of the family. Working together every day, often in pressured situations, the handler and dog form a close bond. PC Hampson added: "Roo retired from the force in 2009 and went to live with a friend of mine. He couldn't have given him a better life. It made it easier for me still being able to see him regularly and knowing he was happy." PC Hampson is still a dog handler with the force and often makes the headlines with his new canine partner, PD Troy.
News of Roo's passing spread quickly over social media yesterday leading to tributes on both Facebook and Twitter, such was his fame locally. Roo will be sadly missed not only by former handler Jim and his family, who grew up with him, but by his recent owner and his family with whom Roo spent the last four years.
submitted by Jim Cortina, Dir. CPWDA
In Loving Memory of
K9 ROSCOE
June 26, 2013
 
Handler: Officer. Robert Joy
Stratford Police Department
900 Longbrook Avenue
Stratford, CT 06614
http://www.stratfordctpd.com/
A former longtime Stratford police dog has passed months after retiring from nearly a decade of service on the force.
Roscoe was 13 last September when a retirement ceremony was held for the “grizzled veteran,” as Police Chief
Patrick Ridenhour had referred to the German shepherd. The announcement of Roscoe’s passing was made Wednesday
on the Stratford Fire Department’s Facebook page. Roscoe was invaluable to the Stratford Police Department.
The German shepherd and his former handler, Officer Bob Joy, executed more than 60 successful
tracks over their nine years together as a K9 unit. “It’s been a great run,” Joy said at the retirement ceremony.
“It’s the best job I’ve had yet in the police department.” Read more about Roscoe's achievements and
his retirement ceremony here.
After nine years of catching bad guys and finding missing persons, Roscoe -- the so-called "grizzled veteran"
of the 's K9 unit -- can soon put his paws up and relax.
"It's been a great run," said Roscoe's handler Officer Bob Joy at a retirement ceremony Thursday for the 13-year-old German shepherd. "It's the best job I've had yet in the police department."
K9 Roscoe’s hips gave out and had to be euthanized. Ofc. Robert Joy and K9 Roscoe became members of the CPWDA
on June 4, 2004 until 2012 . We are proud to say they were members of the CPWDA !
submitted by Jim Cortina, Dir. CPWDA
MORE:______________________
A furry veteran of more than 65 track-downs, almost all of them at night, was remembered at police headquarters Tuesday. Roscoe had been with the department for nine years, the longest of any police dog in Stratford. He died six weeks ago of natural causes after retiring in November. "He knew how to turn off the switch at home," said Officer Robert Joy, Roscoe's handler. "I had four small children in the house when he came into our lives, and the whole family loved him." Joy, a 20-year veteran himself, is a night owl; he prefers the midnight-to-8 a.m. shift. "There aren't too many police dogs who work that shift in Fairfield County, so we were pretty busy.
I would get called everywhere." Roscoe was a German shepherd from the Czech Republic. Just about all of the police dogs now come from Eastern Europe because of their breeding for temperament, courage and intelligence. He was cross-trained for both patrol and drug-sniffing work. One of his last adventures was finding a wife-abuser who was hiding in the brambles. "Being with Roscoe, well, it was a great job," said Joy, who lives in town. "Probably the best job I've had in police work." The dogs and their handlers are trained by the State Police. The dogs are typically 2 to 4 years old when they're certified to work on the job, and their handlers have to be certified, too.
About 40 people, most of them police officers from Stratford and elsewhere, attended the ceremony in front of police headquarters, along with a few police dogs. "Roscoe was the granddaddy of our police canines," said Chief Patrick A. Ridenhour. "He's had the longest career of any canine in Stratford, and probably one of the longest of any police dog in this region." Ridenhour said that he always knew Roscoe as a gentle giant. "He had a great demeanor," the chief said. "He certainly knew his role as a patrol dog, and he could really go after the bad guys and sniff narcotics. But then, when he was with elementary school kids, he acted like the family pet."
Ridenhour said that dogs are valued members of the department -- especially when you have to send them into a building because you don't know what sort of criminals may be hiding inside. "It's a lot easier and safer to send a dog in when you're going into a situation blind," he said. "Because of their superior senses, they can be more protective of the officers." There are still three active dogs in the department: Bravo, Kahn and Gunny, one for each eight-hour shift. Bravo, the newest four-legged recruit, is Roscoe's replacement, the chief said. A teary-eyed Joy was presented with a plaque depicting his former patrol buddy. "All of you who have had pets know what it's like," he said. "They're always with you and you miss them when they're gone."
submitted by Jim Cortina, Dir. CPWDA
In Loving Memory of
K9 RONIN
June 20, 2013
Handler: Officer Wes Zygmont
Glendale Police Department
6835 N 57th Drive
Glendale, AZ 85301
A Glendale police officer and a police dog were taken to local hospitals after an officer-involved shooting Thursday evening.
According to Officer Tracey Breeden of the Glendale Police Department, the officer, Wes Zygmont, was shot in the hand and is expected to recover. His partner, Ronin died overnight.
The suspect, Jourdan Akili Wagner, 20, also was shot during the confrontation. He died overnight, as well.
The man, 62 year old died after he was reportedly shot by Phoenix police detectives.
The man, a 62-year-old died after he was reportedly shot by Phoenix police detectives. A store clerk called police about 6:45 p.m. about a man causing some sort of problems at a Circle K convenience store near 51st and Orangewood avenues.
Glendale police said they responded to a business complex near 44th Avenue and Olive. An officer contacted the suspect, who ran as soon as he went outside the store, Breeden said. Witnesses said the suspect had a handgun and threatened to shoot people as he ran through a nearby neighborhood, at one time pointing the gun at a homeowner as he tried to force his way into a house. More officers, including a K-9 officer and his dog, joined the chase. The suspect took off running when police arrived and was chased into a backyard in the 7600 block of North 51st Lane, investigators said.
Glendale resident Robert Tienda said he saw the shooter jump over his neighbor’s fence where a child was home alone and therefore Tienda confronted him. The shooter showed his weapon and demanded to go in the home where the child was alone, but Tienda said that he told the shooter he would have to be shot before that happened. The suspect then fled to a different backyard. Officers caught up with the suspect hiding under a trampoline in the backyard of a home and the police dog was sent after him.
The man showed his gun and officers fired. Glendale Fire pronounced the man dead at the scene. The suspect had several felony warrants. Glendale homicide detectives are now investigating the incident. Breeden said it hadn't been determined who shot the dog or officer. Robertson is an 8-year veteran officer, and Chambers is a 7-year veteran officer. Zygmont has been with the Glendale Police Department for 13 years and Ronin, a Belgian Malinois, was the newest K9 with the department, being there just three months. No other injuries were reported. submitted by Jim Cortina, Dir. CPWDA
In Loving Memory of
K9 RUSO
May 23, 2013
Handler: Cpl. Chris Hellums
Helena-West Helena Police Department
Arkansas
Helena-West Helena K-9 officer mourned
The Helena-West Helena Police Department is saddened by the sudden loss of Police K9 Officer Ruso. Ruso was a four- year- old Belgian Malinois. Ruso started his service Nov. 15 2011 with the Helena-West Helena Police Department. Ruso was found dead by his partner, Cpl. Chris Hellums. The cause of death is being investigated. Ruso leaves behind his partner Cpl. Hellums and his loving family, which cared for this four-legged hero. Russo's watch ended May 23 2013 at 4:40 p.m. Funeral services were
conducted by the Kincaid Funeral Services in Helena – West Helena on Thursday May 30.
submitted by: Jim Cortina, Dir. CPWDA
In Loving Memory of
K9 RIO
April 30, 2013
Handler: Patrolman Ronnie Lusk
Huntington Police Department
675 10th St.
Huntington West Virginia
25701
The Tuesday afternoon. Rio was a Belgian Malinois-German shepherd mix, who entered into service Sept. 18, 2009, with a dual purpose of tracking and narcotics detection. Rio collapsed Monday afternoon during a training exercise. He became unresponsive, and attempts to revive him proved unsuccessful. Huntington Police Chief Skip Holbrook described Rio as "loyal and faithful" to both the department and the citizens of Huntington. "K-9 Rio not only helped keep our officers safe, but was equally instrumental in our community drug eradication efforts," Holbrook said in the release. Rio had been assigned to Patrolman Ronnie Lusk.
The dog completed 50 suspect tracks, which led to 17 apprehensions, as well as drug seizures of 4.28 pounds of marijuana, 3.11 pounds of cocaine, 0.8 pounds of heroin and 1,884 opiate pills, according to the release. Holbrook's release states the agency intends to immediately begin the process of replacing Rio. The death leaves the department with six police dogs. Earlier this year, Huntington Police celebrated the addition of its seventh dog, representing its largest canine roster in the agency's history, which enabled the department to staff a police dog and its handler around the clock, expediting response time and helping the city seize drugs and track those who need to be found.
submitted by Jim Cortina, Dir. CPWDA
In Loving Memory of
K9 ROCCO
April 25, 2013
Handler: Officer Andy Giordani
Miami-Dade Police Dept.
Florida
Miami-Dade Police Canine Officer Rocco Dies
Officer Rocco was 9
The Miami-Dade Police Department lost a four-legged friend on Thursday. Canine Officer Rocco died after 7 years on the force from prostate cancer, according to a post on the police department's Facebook page. Rocco, a 9-year-old Belgian Malinois, served with Officer Andy Giordani with whom he conducted 670 searches resulting in 72 subject apprehensions, according to the Facebook post. During one of his searches, a subject shot at Officer Giordani and struck Rocco and the back-up officer, but he returned to work after treatment and therapy. "He will be greatly missed by his extended police family," reads the Facebook post. According to spokesperson Aida Fina-Milian, Giordani was not in any state to comment. "It's like losing a family member," she said.
submitted by Jim Cortina, Dir. CPWDA
In Loving Memory of
K9 ROCKY
April 07, 2013
Handler: Officer Michael McFadden
New Canaan Police Department
174 South Avenue
New Canaan, CT 06840
WEBSITE - http://www.newcanaan.info/content/9490/293/317/default.aspx
member of the CPWDA
New Canaan police say the department’s K-9 dog, Rocky, choked to death Sunday on a training ball. Rocky's first day on the road was in November of 2012, but he's been with the department since mid-summer 2012. “We are all mourning the loss of an exceptional police dog,” Ogrinc said. The department’s K-9 Officer Michael McFadden lived with Rocky. McFadden tried to dislodge the ball from the dog’s mouth but couldn’t, according to a press release from Sgt. Carol Ogrinc. "[Off. McFadden is] feeling sad, like the rest of us. I did speak briefly with him. He's probably in shock, too," Ogrinc said.
"He did try to get the ball, tried to get it out. He tried to save the dog. He did everything he could." Ogrinc said McFadden suffered some injuries trying to save the dog, but couldn't give an update on the exact extent of his wounds. "He's got some scrapes and a minor injury to his hand from trying to grab the ball," Ogrinc said. "I don't know. I talked to him very briefly. I was asking him more about how he was doing and to let him know it was going to be on the news... just so he wouldn't be shocked to see it on there, just to prepare him."
Ogrinc said the activity they were engaged in when the dog passed "wasn't anything new." She said they trained together all the time and it was an activity not out of the ordinary. New Canaan Animal Control Officer Mary Ann Kleinschmidt said the activity was a reward and was something the dog engaged in regularly. "We don't feed dogs or give them treats as a reward for when they do something they're being trained to do," Kleinschmidt said. "Usually, we keep their favorite toy, and allow them to play with it as a reward."
Rocky was the replacement for K-9 Zira, who retired around the same time Rocky joined the New Canaan Police Department. Ogrinc said the tragedy would not impact the unit over the long-term. "I was told we do plan on continuing the K-9 program here," she said. "There's not much else. I was shocked when someone told me. I couldn't believe it. It's a tragic accident."
submitted by Jim Cortina, Dir. CPWDA
In Loving Memory of
K9 RANGER
March 23, 2013
 
Handler: Deputy Ben Bokor
Hanover County Sheriff's Department
7522 County Complex Road
Hanover, VA 23069
Hanover County Police K-9 Officer Dies
The Hanover County Sheriff's Department has lost one of their own—police K-9 officer Ranger died Saturday. Ranger, a
three-and-a-half-year-old German Shepherd, suffered from a terminal illness and passed away peacefully Saturday.
K9 Handler, Deputy Ben Bokor, remained at Ranger's side until his passing. Ranger and his handler completed a 13 week patrol dog school and were certified through the Virginia Police Work Dog Association in the areas of tracking, obedience, apprehension, building searches, article searches and agility. Ranger joined the Sheriff's Office in March 2011. Ranger and Deputy Bokor worked in the Patrol Division. "Our K-9s are a special part of our law enforcement family who faithfully serve alongside us every day. They start and end their tour of duty just like any other officer, and often face the same risks that our officers confront. We are saddened by his loss and grieve with Deputy Bokor who shared a special bond with Ranger," said Colonel David R. Hines, Sheriff.
submitted by Jim Cortina, Dir. CPWDA
In Loving
Memory of
K9 ROSCOE
March 27, 2013
Handler: Officer
Shawn Gore
Portland Police
Department
1111 S.W. 2nd Avenue,
Portland,
OR
97204
Roscoe, a
Portland police dog,
dies of an
aggressive form of
cancer
Roscoe, a German
Shepherd police dog
credited with 134
captures--including the
capture last June of a
wanted felon at a
department store--died
late last month of
cancer, police said
Wednesday.
The dog and his K-9
partner, Officer Shawn
Gore, worked the streets
for about 5 years.
Last June, Roscoe helped
capture wanted felon
David Chilton
at a North Portland Fred
Meyer store. Chilton was
the subject of a 36-hour
manhunt by the FBI and
other authorities after
allegedly pointing a gun
at a Portland State
University security
guard, robbing a
Portland bank at
gunpoint and committing
a carjacking. From the
first floor of the Fred
Meyer, police had a
clear view of Chilton on
the second-floor landing
near to the escalators
and stairs. They knew he
had the revolver, but
they couldn't see it.
When he refused to put
his hands up, Roscoe's
handler ordered the dog
up the stairs. Roscoe
sunk his sharp teeth
into one of Chilton's
extremities. As he
struggled with the dog,
tactical officers, clad
in bullet-proof vests
and helmets, stormed up
the stairs, handcuffed
Chilton and took him
into custody. Chilton
had a long and violent
criminal history that
started with a bank
robbery in 1978. Chilton
died in the Justice
Center Jail on February
3 of unknown causes; his
death remains under
investigation. On March
21, Gore noticed that
the dog appeared ill so
he took him to the
veterinarian who
diagnosed Roscoe with an
aggressive form of
cancer that had spread
rapidly through his
body. Roscoe died six
days later.
Roscoe, who would have
turned seven years old
on May 22, was purchased
by the Portland Police
Bureau in 2008.
Officials said the dog's
original name was "Isco
Jipo-Me.” Roscoe was
born in the former
Czechoslovakia and
imported to Canada,
before making his way to
Portland. The last of
Roscoe’s 134 captures
came on February 14. In
addition to regular
patrol duties, Roscoe
was one of three K-9
dogs used for the
bureau’s Special
Emergency Response Team
(SERT).
submitted by Jim
Cortina, Dir. CPWDA
In Loving Memory of
K9 Officer REX
January 28, 2013
Handlers:
Federal Government
Philadelphia, PA
Rex lost his courageous battle
with cancer
It is with the saddest heart that I
inform all my friends of the passing
of K-9 Officer Rex, on January 28
2013. Rex ultimately lost his
courageous battle with cancer and
passed peacefully at home with his
handler by his side. He will be
missed terribly by those near and
dear to him. Rex was born in the
Czech Republic and came to the U.S.
via the Netherlands in 2003 for
training at Auburn University,
Anniston, Alabama. Rex was certified
as an EDD (Explosive Detector Dog)
through DHS, ATF and IPWDA and
performed daily searches of federal
government facilities throughout the
Philadelphia Metro area. During his
career, Rex deployed to Miami,
Florida for Operation Tradewinds and
twice to Louisiana supporting FEMA
personnel during the Katrina
disaster. When the need arose, Rex
was called on to assist local, state
and federal law enforcement agencies
to conduct explosive sweeps for bomb
threats called in to schools,
churches, stadiums and other venues.
Rex had performed many bomb sweeps
for high-profile visitors including
the President of the United States
(past and present), U.S. Cabinet
Members and many foreign
dignitaries. When Rex was not
searching for explosives, he enjoyed
playing tug with his rope ball and
chasing squirrels and pesky geese
from “his” yard. Rex was a mainstay
for federal agencies during the
annual “Take Your Child To Work” day
held every year in the federal
community and enjoyed interacting
with the children who attended. He
was a remarkable dog, friend and
partner.
submitted by
Jim Cortina, Dir. CPWDA
In Loving Memory of
K9 RAMBO
January 31, 2013
Handler:
Officer Mike Fredendall
Springfield Police Department
130 North Fountain Avenue
Springfield, OH 45502
Springfield
police, community mourn K-9’s death
Rambo sniffed out drugs, served as
ambassador for department, chief says.
Rambo, the Springfield Police
Division’s police dog, has died. Rambo is
shown here after winning 5 medals at the
Ohio Police and Fire games, the first time
that Rambo and his handler, Officer Mike Fredendall,
had competed in the games.
The men and women of Springfield Police
Division this week are mourning the loss
of one of their own —
Rambo, the
8-year-old K-9 officer who was loved by
the general public and loathed by
suspects.
Rambo died Thursday from complications
from cancer, the division announced via
a Facebook post.
“He was an
important member of our
department and the community. He had a
great life, doing what K-9s do, catching
bad guys and finding drugs,” the post
said. Police Chief Steve Moody said
Friday that Rambo was not
only a police
dog but an ambassador to the community,
attending such functions as Culture
Fest,
Law Camp and Citizens Police
Academy training sessions.
“It was almost like he had a community
policing chip in his brain,” Moody said
of Rambo’s ability to socialize
with the
general public while being tough on
suspects upon command.
Rambo was diagnosed with cancer
about a
year ago, Moody said, but worked up
until several days before his passing.
“He was so damn tough,”
Moody said,
likening Rambo’s work ethics to an
athlete. “He just worked through the
pain.”
Rambo and his handler, Officer
Mike Fredendall, hit the street in 2006
and more than paid back the
community’s
investment in their first days when he
hit on more than $100,000 cash during a
drug investigation.
Rambo was purchased, supplied and
trained through a combination of private
donations and public funds
and received
free veterinary care from Dr. Dana King.
While Rambo’s passing has left a hole in
the hearts
of the community members he
served and in the police division’s
operations, neither will be without a
police dog for long.
Earlier this month, the Citizens Police
Academy Alumni Association presented
a
$14,500 check of private donations and
raised funds to the city and the police
division for the purchase,
training and
outfitting of a new police dog. It’s
expected to be patrolling Springfield
streets later this year.
The police
division will provide the cruiser and
officer salary for the new unit.
The idea, CPAAA President Vickie
Matthies said Friday, was to put a
second unit on the street for
coverage
on different shifts and take some of the
load off Rambo and Fredendall.
Moody said the hope
was for Rambo to
retire and live out the rest of his life
doing what dogs do at home.
In the meantime,
other Miami Valley
agencies with a K-9 unit will help fill
the void.
“Other organizations and agencies
knew
they could call for Rambo,” Moody said.
“We know that if we need a K-9 officer,
we can call on them.”
The alumni association raised about
$20,000 at its second annual K-9 golf
outing fundraiser last year
and the
remainder of that after the donation
earlier this month, as well as any funds
raised between
now and the next golf
outing, will go to funds for another
police dog later, Matthies said.
Services
for Rambo were not set as of
Friday afternoon, but the Springfield
Police Patrolmen’s Association was
working with Littleton & Rue to
establish plans, Moody said.
MORE:
Springfield Police Division
K-9 officer Rambo was
remembered Thursday night as
“Springfield’s dog” in a
memorial
service attended by
about 300 area law
enforcement officers, police
dogs, handlers and
civilians.
Uniformed
officers had their
badges crossed through with
the traditional black
“mourning band” in respect
for their
fellow officer.
About 20 K-9 units from Ohio
jurisdictions took part in a
K-9 procession that honored
their fallen comrade in the
service at Littleton and Rue
Funeral Home. Springfield
Police Chief Steve Moody
choked up as he remembered
Rambo’s unique qualities.
“Rambo was more than just a
dog,” Moody said. “He was
(Officer Mike Fredendall’s)
partner, he was his friend,
he was his protector. He was
a member of the Springfield
Police Division. Rambo would
go into harm’s way
so that
we wouldn’t have to.”
Rambo’s passing on Jan. 31
from complications from
cancer was marked by
the
traditional playing of Going
Home and Amazing Grace on
bagpipes, a slideshow set to
music that recalled
his
career and life, a
presentation of the U.S.
Flag to Fredendall, an end
of watch radio call and a
K-9 officer procession.
Displayed along with his
cremated remains were
Rambo’s five awards from The
Ohio Police and Fire Games,
his collar and badge, which
read “K-9, Rambo” and the
U.S. flag in a wood and
glass display case, among
other remembrances from
poems to silk-screened
blankets and photos. His
cruiser, with a decal of his
name
on the rear window, was
draped and its light bar
covered with black fabric. A
procession of marked police
cruisers arrived at the
funeral home just after 6:30
p.m. from Springfield Police
Division headquarters.
The
slideshow brought tears and
giggles as attendees
remembered Rambo’s service
and life.
Moody said when the
initiative was brought to
him in late 2004 or early
2005, he was hesitant about
bringing a police dog into
the organization. “You see,
I’m a child of the ’60s and
still have that imprint of
beautiful K-9s being used
for intimidation in an ugly
way in our nation’s
history,” Moody said. “As I
researched
this idea and
sought advice … I knew as an
organization this was
something we had to do for
our community.”
Moody said
the division initially
thought Rambo would simply
be a tool to find drugs when
he joined the force
in 2006
with Fredendall, his
handler.
“What happened, in fact, was
totally unexpected. We chose
a handler that would just
not find drugs,
we found a
handler that marketed a
four-legged officer. They
showed us as a team what was
possible,”
he said. “And
Rambo became ‘Springfield’s
Dog.’ Together, they
showcased Rambo’s uniqueness
— that
same uniqueness in
everyone whose vocation it
is to serve.” In addition to
fighting crime, they served
as
ambassadors between
police and the community,
visiting schools,
fundraising events and
hospitals at the
bedside of
sick children, Moody said.
“This was an animal that
could take and would take a
bite out of crime quite
literally, but also comfort
a schoolroom full of
children by his mere
presence,” he said. “Some of
the things that made him
unique
are that he had no
agenda, he had no hidden
motives, he wasn’t planning
anything. He simply loved to
work,”
he said. “He was
always happy to see
everyone, even me,” Moody
said, drawing giggles from
the crowd.
“Rambo knew
nothing about rank. Of
course if you had no treat
for him, he would quickly
move on to
the next person.”
“And while there is one of
us missing this evening, we
will continue our mission of
serving the community. We
will keep Rambo’s legacy
alive and we will step into
the next chapter, as
hard as
that seems right now,” Moody
said.
submitted by Jim Cortina, Dir. CPWDA
In Loving Memory of
K9 ROBBIE
Louisiana
January 27, 2013
Secret Service dog dies in line of
duty
It’s always so sad hearing stories about police dogs
killed in the line of duty. And they and their police
family deserve our heartfelt condolences. CNN reported
Sunday on the sad story of a Secret Service
Belgian
Malinois falling to its death from a six-story parking
garage during a security sweep in advance
of a visit
from Vice President Joe Biden. The parking deck was
“adjacent to The Ritz-Carlton in New Orleans
where Biden
was speaking at a fundraiser for U.S. Senator Mary
Landrieu,” according to the report.
A Secret Service
official called the dog’s death a “tragic accident.”
According to the Secret Service’s
website, its mission
is twofold:
“The
mission of the United States Secret Service is to
safeguard the nation’s financial infrastructure and
payment systems to preserve the integrity of the
economy, and to protect national leaders, visiting
heads
of state and government, designated sites and National
Special Security Events [emphasis added].”
The agency began its canine program in 1975 to
detect explosives. It uses Belgian Malinois because
they are small and have short hair — making it easy
for them to work in the heat. They are also very
sociable.
Each dog and its handler has to complete 20 weeks of
training before beginning work, the agency said.
When it’s time for a dog to retire — usually after
about 10 years — it is retired to the handler after
about 10 years — it is retired to its handler.
R.I.P., little Malinois, and know your country salutes
your service. Our condolences go out to the
dog’s
handler and family as well.
submitted by Jim Cortina, Dir. CPWDA
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Memorials
to Fallen K-9s
