In Loving Memory of
K9 BRISKA
December 29, 2014
Handler: Officer Ray Gonzalez
California State University Police Department
18111 Nordhoff Street
Northridge, CA 91330-8282
First dog in K-9 unit no longer with us
After nine years of providing the CSUN campus with public safety services, the first dog in the K-9 police program passed
away on December 29, 2014. The full-bred German shepherd, Briska, was an immediate hit on campus when she first started
serving in February 2005, alongside Officer Ray Gonzalez. Briska was born in the Netherlands, and was donated by her original
family to serve as an explosive ordnance detection dog. Department of Police Services Captain Alfredo Fernandez, noted her
immediate significance as a member of the CSUN Police Department.
“She showed her value right away,” Fernandez said. “Having her was a real game changer in the department.” Throughout her
time serving at CSUN, Briska worked in patrol and handler protection, provided security at graduations, the Golden Globe
Awards, the Republican presidential debate at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and the 2008 Hillary Clinton
presidential campaign. “She was very popular from beginning to end,” Fernandez said. When Briska retired in 2009,
she received a standing ovation by the department, honoring her service for public safety. Briska’s handler,
Corporal Leon Ortiz-Gil, took her into his home for the remainder of her years.
While working alongside Briska, Ortiz-Gil found that students were more willing to engage in conversations. “When you have
a dog, it’s a great way to initiate conversation,” Ortiz-Gil said. “It breaks the barrier between police and the general public.”
Ortiz-Gil also commented on how well liked she was by the CSUN community. “She was kind of like a local celebrity,”
Ortiz-Gil said. “People would walk up to Briska and know who she was but wouldn’t recognize me. It’s like being married to
a famous star where everyone knows that person but no one knows who their significant other is.”
Briska’s friendly, easy demeanor made her very popular with the police department. Ortiz-Gil mentioned that although he is
not usually one to cry, losing Briska made the tears roll out. “It just shows how much I really cared about her,” Ortiz-Gil said.
CSUN Chief of Police, Anne Glavin, recognizes how important the K-9 unit is to the campus. Losing the first dog that got
the program started affected her, along with all members of the police department. “I am deeply saddened on the
passing of Briska,” Glavin said. “She was loved by the community and will always hold a special place in DPS history.”
submitted by Jim Cortina, Dir. CPWDA
In Loving Memory of
K9 BARON
September 14, 2014
Handler:
Madisonville Police Department
210 West Cottonwood Street
Madisonville, TX 77864
Madisonville Police K-9 Found Dead In Patrol Car
Madisonville Police and the Texas Rangers are investigating the death of a K-9 officer. Baron, a Belgian Malinois, was found dead Friday in the back of his handler’s patrol car. He had served with Madisonville PD since June 2012. The dog was used for tracking, narcotics detection, and fugitive apprehension. His body was transported to the Texas A&M Vet School for an autopsy. The department asked the Texas Rangers to conduct an independent investigation. Chief Chuck May calls the death a “tragic accident” and says “policies and procedures are being reviewed to see what we can do to prevent incidents such as this from taking place in the future.”
May would not say how long the dog was left in the car or if it had gotten hot inside, but temperatures were in the low 90's in Madisonville before the cold front arrived Friday. Corporal Gary Laws, the dog’s handler, has been reassigned to administrative duties pending the outcome of the investigation. Chief May says Laws and the rest of the department are mourning the devastating loss.The department tells us K-9 officers, like Baron, cost $5,000 to $15,000 and take up to a year to train. The department’s other K-9 officer, Gunny, went missing for several hours last month. submitted by Jim Cortina, Dir. CPWDA
In Loving Memory of
K9 BRIX ( MWD )
July 18, 2014
Handler: Master at Arms Drew Risley
Scott Air Force Base, Ill
Brix was awarded a Navy Marine Corp Achievement medal and an Army Commendation medal while being deployed in Iraq.
He retired in 2011 upon returning from a deployment. submitted by Jim Cortina, Dir. CPWDA
In Loving Memory of
K9 BRODY
December 23, 2014
Handler: ?
Conyers Police Department
1194 Scott Street
Conyers, Georgia 30012
Pack of coyotes kills police K-9
Brody, an 8-year-old Malinois, had worked for the department since 2010. While Brody was aggressive with other animals,
Conyers police say he was patient and friendly with people.
The Conyers Police Department is suffering a big loss after one of their K-9s was killed by a pack of coyotes. Brody, an 8-year-old Malinois, had worked for the department since 2010. “Brody was a patrol dog, so he did tracking of suspects, he did tracking of
articles or lost children, he was a drug-detection dog," said Lt. Jackie Dunn with the Conyers Police Department. On Dec. 23,
Brody lost his life after a battle with a pack of coyotes while on his handler's property in Jasper County. “Brody is a
very animal aggressive dog. He had spotted some coyotes and he attacked the coyotes. When the handler got to him,
Brody was fighting three coyotes.
The handler was unarmed. He engaged in a fight with him, kicked and tried to kick the coyotes off,” Dunn said. But the
coyotes kept attacking Brody until the handler's other dogs came to help. By then it was too late. "Brody had sustained
injuries. He was taken to an animal hospital, where he died the morning of Dec. 23,” Dunn said. While Brody was
aggressive with other animals, Conyers police say he was patient and friendly with people. "Always a big attraction at Shop
with a Cop; kids loved him. He interacted well with them and he was a member of the Conyers police family," Dunn said.
Because he was not in service when he died, the department left it up to the handler to decide about a ceremony,
which he declined. Instead, the department plans to honor the officer at an upcoming meeting.
submitted by Jim Cortina, Dir. CPWDA
In Loving Memory of
K9 BUZZY
December 28, 2014
Handler: Officer Chad Chysna
Shrewsbury Police Department
106 Maple Avenue
Shrewsbury, MA 01545
Shrewsbury Loses K9 Officer
The Shrewsbury Police Department's only four-footed member died unexpectedly Sunday.Buzzy, a 9-year-old German shepherd, was partner to Officer Chad Chysna. The dog joined the force in 2008, graduating from the Boston Police K9 Academy for patrol training that year. The officers also attended narcotics training with the Worcester K9 Academy and were nationally certified by the
U.S. Police K9 Academy.Buzzy was trained to patrol with Chysna and assisted with everything from apprehending suspects to
detecting drugs. Buzzy worked for Shrewsbury Police for his entire career and lived with Chysna and his family when not on duty.Chysna and Buzzy received many awards and commendations for their work over the years. Buzzy had also been equipped with a bullet proof vest after the community rallied to raise the funds.Prior to Buzzy's arrival, the town had been without a canine officer
for more than a decade. submitted by Jim Cortina, Dir. CPWDA
In Loving Memory of
K9 BREK
December 22, 2014
Handler: Cpl. Fred Hasty
Charlevoix County Sheriff’s Office
1000 Grant Street
Charlevoix, MI 49720
Sheriff's tracking dog dies
The Sheriff’s Department’s police dog, K9 Brek, died on Monday, Dec. 22, after suffering from cancer. “Sheriff W.D. (Don) Schneider with deepest sympathy reports the Sheriff's K-9 comrade for the past five and a half years, German Shepherd, ‘Brek, was put
to rest yesterday, December 22, 2014,” the Sheriff’s Department said in a statement. The Sheriff’s Department said the dog
had shown discomfort over the last few weeks. At first, it was thought that Brek had a torn ligament. He wasn’t himself. A medical examination showed that the dog had bone cancer in his shoulder. Sheriff’s Cpl. Fred Hasty worked closely with Brek. “Sheriff Schneider gives praise and thanks to Cpl. Fred Hasty for his undivided care for his partner,” the statement said. The sheriff
wants to get another police dog. The Sheriff's Department expects to begin fund-raising efforts in early January.
submitted by Jim Cortina, Dir. CPWDA
In Loving Memory of
K9 BRUTUS
December 8, 2014
Handler: Officer Ryan Irving
Monroe Police Department
806 West Main Street
Monroe, WA 98272
Police K9 Brutus laid to rest
K9 Brutus, a black Labrador retriever, joined the Monroe Police Department in 2003 and was assigned to partner Ryan Irving.
Brutus was one of two narcotics detection dogs who came to the department that year, a first for the City of Monroe.
Brutus served as a vital member of the department, with his service resulting in a multitude of narcotics finds and search
warrants. He was often seen at community events such as National Night Out and visits to schools. K9 Brutus retired in
May of 2010 and remained an important member of Sergeant Irving’s family. Although his working days were over,
his love and devotion to his handler was still evident. The Monroe Police Department and community benefited greatly
from their valuable teamwork and experience. K9 Brutus will always be remembered.
submitted by Jim Cortina, Dir. CPWDA
In Loving Memory of
K9 BLADE
Dec. 3, 2014
Handler: ?
Forsyth County, California
We regretfully inform you that retired K-9 Blade passed away after fighting stomach cancer for over a year.
K-9 Blade, a male Beauceron, served Forsyth County from 2006 until 2009. He assisted with many felony arrests,
including tracking and apprehending two armed robbery suspects. One suspect was found 30 feet up a tree and
the other was found miles away hiding in tall grass. Thank you for your service, you will be missed.
In Loving Memory of
K9 BELLA
December 8, 2014
Handler: Sgt. Matt Devlin
Salineville Police Department
66 E. Main St.
Salineville, OH 43945
WEBSITE - https://www.google.com/#q=Salineville+Police+Department+
Police dog dies unexpectedly
The Salineville Police Department is mourning the loss of a significant member of its force. Bella, the 6-year-old German shepherd who became Salineville's first-ever K-9 unit, died unexpectedly Monday evening. The cause of death was not immediately known. Police Chief Andy Straley confirmed the news Tuesday afternoon and also discussed the impact the news had on the force. "It's obviously tragic for us," Straley said. Straley said Bella's seven months with the force brought productivity to the department and great memories of what Straley considered a member of the family. "It's like our family down here," Straley said. "The dog was always active with us."
Bella and her handler, Sgt. Matt Devlin, comprised the village's first K-9 unit. She also reached Level 2 in her Schutzhund training, a demanding series of tests for apprehension and drugs. The training determines a potential police dog's strength, endurance, agility, scenting ability and possession of several traits and willingness to be on the force. Among those traits include a desire to work, courage, intelligence, trainability, bond to the handler, perseverance, protection and a keen sense of smell. It was that same keen sense of smell of Bella which, according to Straley, helped the police uncover several drug arrests throughout the community, and will be missed dearly.
"She had acquired some 30 or more drug arrests in her time for being here with us," Straley said. "It's a tough thing for us. It's a sad loss." Taking Bella's place on the force will be Huck, a 1-year-old German shepherd who was appointed as her successor effective immediately. Straley also said Bella's badge number will be officeally retired following a funeral service this weekend.
submitted by Jim Cortina, Dir. CPWDA
In Loving Memory of
K9 BYRON
2014
Handler: ?
North Little Rock Police Department
200 W Pershing Blvd
North Little Rock, AR 72114
Police K-9 passes away
North Little Rock police are mourning the loss of one of their K-9 unit dogs. His name is Byron who
retired from his police duties back in 2012. Byron received several awards, including the Medal of Valor,
for being shot while in the line of duty. North Little Rock police stated that Byron died of natural causes.
The Patrol Division is responsible for handling the daily calls for service within the city. Officers are assigned to
one of four substations located throughout North Little Rock. Also assigned to the Patrol Division are
the Motorcycle Unit, K-9 Units, and S.A.F.E. Team officer, Karl Sorrells.
submitted by Jim Cortina, Dir. CPWDA
In Loving Memory of
K9 BENY
2014 Date of death ?
Handler: ?
Colonie Police Department
312 Wolf Rd.
Latham, NY 12110
WEBSITE - http://www.colonie.org/police/
Retired Colonie K9 passes due to health issues
The Colonie Police Department has announced the passing of retired K9 officer Beny. The department said that Beny,
served for more than 10 years before his retirement in 2013. He passed away due to on-going health issues.
He was almost 13 years old, and born in the Czech Republic. K9 Beny was involved in the detection of numerous amounts of
illegal narcotics and marijuana, as well as the recovery of evidence. Beny spent countless hours meeting children where
he displayed his skills during demonstrations at the local elementary schools and parks.
He was the ninth police K9 in the history of the department. submitted by Jim Cortina, Dir. CPWDA
In Loving Memory of
K9 BLITZ
August 25,2014
Handler: James (Jimmy) Myers
Columbus Police Dept.
Indiana
Columbus Police Department has utilized police dogs for over 30 years. The department's first canine team was Jim Norris and a
German Shepherd named, Baron. They began patrolling the streets of Columbus in April of 1975. Since then the use of dogs has proved to be an important asset to the department in assisting officers in many areas. Currently the department has three canine teams.Handlers are responsible for taking care of the canine assigned to them. The canine teams train during their shift and two workdays a month. This is done to maintain the dog's high level of proficiency and to meet legal requirements. The canine teams are on call 24 hours a day to respond to any incident where the dog may be able to assist. These call-outs are not limited to just the Columbus Police Department. Over the years, CPD K-9 teams have assisted many other departments who are not fortunate enough to have police canines.
Police dogs have evolved over the years and will continue to do so well into the future. Certainly they have proved to be a very important tool for the Columbus Police Department in providing a safe community. submitted by: happygirl2052@yahoo.com
In Loving Memory of
K9 BUCK
October 24, 2014
Handler: ?
Brevard County Sheriff’s Office Corrections Facility
Florida
https://www.facebook.com/BrevardCountySheriff
K9 ‘Buck’ Dies Peacefully
During the course of his career Buck was nominated for “Tracking Dog of the Year” during Florida’s Missing Children Week
and responded to almost 100 calls for service to assist in various types of cases including robberies, missing children,
endangered adults, murders and fleeing suspects.
Yesterday, “Buck” a longtime member of our Corrections K-9 Team,passed away peacefully in his kennel at the
Brevard County Sheriff’s Office Corrections Facility. Buck has been a member of our agency for almost nine years and
will be deeply missed by our K-9 Team and the citizens he so proudly and gladly served. During the course of his
career Buck was nominated for “Tracking Dog of the Year” during Florida’s Missing Children Week and responded to
almost 100 calls for service to assist in various types of cases including robberies, missing children, endangered adults,
murders and fleeing suspects. Buck was a great dog who was loved by our team and family and we greatly appreciate
his service to our agency. submitted by Jim Cortina, Dir. CPWDA
In Loving Memory of
K9 BO
October 14, 2014
Handler: Officer Ron Bates
Cottage Grove Police Department
400 E. Main St.
Cottage Grove, Oregon 97424
WEBSITE - http://www.cgpolice.org/
Cottage Grove PD looses K9 to natural causes
On October 14, 2014 Cottage Grove Police Department lost “Bo” their Narcotics Detection K9 to natural causes.
In January of 2010, "Bo" became Cottage Grove's first primary Narcotics Detection K9. His first night on patrol with
Cottage Grove Police Department's newest handler, Officer Ron Bates, was April 20th, 2010. Bo was trained initially
by Mack Reid formerly of the Department of Corrections and current Master Trainer with the Oregon Police Canine
Association (OPCA). Officer Bates and Bo were both certified through the (OPCA) and
Pacific Northwest K9 Association (PNWK9).
During his career Bo was responsible for seizing more than 50 pounds of Methamphetamine, 3.5 pounds of Heroin,
2 pounds of Cocaine and over $400,000.00 in currency. Additionally, Bo was responsible for over 50 drug related felony
arrests. Bo was a great crime fighter. The community has lost a valuable asset but more importantly Bo was a member
of the Bates family and will be truly missed. submitted by James Cortina, Dir. CPWDA
In Loving Memory of
K9 BENY
September 28, 2014
Handler: Sgt. Brett Harrison
Montville Township Police
6665 Wadsworth Rd
Medina, OH 44256
Officer disciplined after K-9 dies in cruiser
A township police sergeant will lose two weeks pay and a week’s worth of vacation after his K9 died after being left in a police cruiser with the air conditioning turned off. Police Chief Terry Grice said Sgt. Brett Harrison took responsibility for his actions. “He released a statement to the (township) board of trustees accepting full responsibility,” he said. “It was an accident and he was 100 percent forthcoming about the details.” Grice said Harrison arrived at work Sept. 28 at 10:54 a.m. for his 11a.m. to 9 p.m. shift at the department. Beny, a German Shepherd, was in the backseat. Because it was a hot day, he had the windows rolled up and the air conditioning on.
“For some unknown reason, when he arrived at the station, he turned the car off,” Grice said. Protocol for the K9 unit is to leave the car running with the air conditioning on, which Grice said Harrison usually did. But on that day, Harrison went inside the building and began write-up and approving police reports from the night before. “He had an OVI arrest he had to write up from the previous night, and a number of reports sitting in his box to review,” Grice said. When Harrison went outside around 3:13 p.m., the temperature was about 79 degrees and he noticed his patrol car wasn’t running.
“When we watched the video, we saw him panic immediately when he saw the car wasn’t running,” Grice said. Emergency crews from the township responded immediately, but were unable to save Beny. An investigation determined Beny died of injuries consistent with a heat stroke. The department received Beny just over a year ago after the dog and Harrison completed a training session together. Grice said his department conducted an investigation and held a pre-disciplinary hearing on Sept. 30 with Harrison where they recommended the time without pay and loss of a week’s vacation.
On Thursday, Montville Township Trustees meet in executive session and approved the discipline. Grice said more discipline was not handed down because of Harrison’s good service to the department. “It would have been different if he said ‘I thought it would be fine to leave the dog out there for four hours,’” Grice said. “But this was not an intentional act.” Harrison joined the department in 2007 and has had no prior disciplinary issues. Before his service with the department, Harrison served for 10 years in the U.S. Air National Guard and was deployed to Qatar during Operation Enduring Freedom. Lt. Matt Neil lamented that nobody at the department feels worse about Beny’s death than Harrison. Beny lived at home with Harrison and his family, which includes small children who loved having Beny in their home. “He’s just devastated,” Neil said. “The whole department is devastated.”
submitted by Jim Cortina, Dir. CPWDA
In Loving Memory of
K9 BARON
October 7, 2014
Handler: Deputy Farrah Ashe
St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office
4015 Lewis Speedway
St. Augustine, FL 32084
K-9 dog killed in St. Johns County, search underway for suspect
Rifle-armed deputies accompanied by police dogs from St. Johns and surrounding counties were searching the woods along Florida 207 late Tuesday morning for a suspect in the death of a Sheriff's Office K-9. A 26-year-old St. Johns County man is being hunted following the apparent drowning of Baron, a German shepherd K-9 who had been tracking him after deputies responded to a disturbance call off Florida 207 west of St. Augustine. Brandon Bernard Allison of the 1000 lock of Puryear Street fled a house on Twin Aspen Circle sometime before 4 a.m. and was being tracked by Baron and his handler, said Cmdr. Chuck Mulligan. Allison was gone before deputies arrived.
Baron and Deputy Farrah Ashe came upon a fence during the pursuit and when she lifted him over it, the dog took off. Mulligan said the dog could sense Allison was close. Mulligan said Ashe could hear a commotion in the woods and a man yelling. The ruckus quieted and when Ashe got to the scene she found Baron and the man missing. Baron’s leash was there and he was found in the water nearby. Mulligan said Baron was found in a swampy area near the 1900 block of Florida 207 just east of Interstate 95.“We do believe the suspect drowned the dog,” he said. Baron was taken to a nearby veterinarian's office where he was pronounced dead.
Allison is being searched for by multiple deputies and other K-9s in a wooded area near Florida 207 and Holmes Boulevard. He is wanted on a separate felony warrant, according to the Sheriff's Office. Neighbors in the subdivision where the disturbance occurred said the house where deputies called has been the scene of disturbances in the past and that Allison did not live there. Tuesday morning deputies were stationed outside the house while the search was going on. Mulligan said it is a third-degree felony to kill a police dog. He would not release other details about the initial call except to say it was a disturbance but not domestic in nature. “These dogs and their handlers do become extremely close,” he said. “These K-9s become a part of the Sheriff’s Office family.”
submitted by Jim Cortina, Dir. CPWDA
In Loving Memory of
K9 BRUNIE
September 29, 2014
Handler: Officer Jason Brungardt
Kansas City Police Department
1125 Locust St.
Kansas City, MO
Police dog immortalized in video of robbery suspect capture dies in line of duty
A beloved Missouri police dog who captured an armed robbery suspect last year in a chase caught on video has died in the line
of duty. Brunie, an award-winning canine cop for the Kansas City Police Department, was helping Belton, Mo., cops pursue a
suspect in a wooded area on Sunday when he fell ill. He passed away Monday. "He managed to flush the suspect out of the
woods, but somewhere in the woods, it appears he ingested something poisonous," the Kansas City Police Department said in
a statement. Brunie won Canine Officer of the Year from the National Police Canine Association after he captured the
armed robbery suspect following a long chase in 2013. The beloved canine, who worked with Officer Jason Brungardt,
had been with the KCPD since 2012. submitted by Jim Cortina, Dir. CPWDA
In Loving Memory of
K9 BANJOIR
September 24, 2014
Handler: Lt. Colin Smith
Fairfield Police Department
1200 W. Grimes Ave.
Fairfield, IA 52556
Fairfield Police Department says goodbye to canine companion
Lt. Colin Smith with Banjoir. On Wednesday, September 24, 2014 the retired Fairfield police canine,
Banjoir, passed away peacefully in his sleep. Banjoir would have been 10 years old in October.
On Wednesday, September 24, 2014 the retired Fairfield police canine, Banjoir, passed away peacefully in his sleep. Banjoir would
have been 10 years old in October. Banjoir was a German Shepard dog, and was brought to the United States from Poland by
Mid-Michigan Kennels located in East Lansing, Michigan when he was 1-year-old. Banjoir spent the next 6 months living and
working at Mid-Michigan Kennels, preparing for his job as a police canine. In late August of 2007, Lt. Colin Smith went to
East Lansing to meet this new canine partner, of whom he’d only seen photos. Master Trainer Mike Morgan introduced the
pair, saying “he’s small, but he’s a worker.”
For the next five weeks, Lt. Smith learned all of Banjoir’s commands. Banjoir was a dual-purpose police canine, meaning that
he not only located drug odor, but he would also protect his handler, track lost or fleeing people, find people inside buildings,
find property dropped by fleeing suspects or lost people, detect a hiding subject from the down-wind side by following the
“scent cone,” and locate a hidden subject from several hundred yards away. In October 2007, the newly graduated police
canine team “hit the streets” for the first time. Banjoir was 2- years-old. Lt. Smith characterizes the first shift he
served with Banjoir as exciting.
“There was a foot chase, a drug sniff, a building search, and an open field search after a report of gun shots. Luckily,
not all of our shifts were as wild as that first one,” recalls Lt. Smith. Lt. Smith quickly learned that Banjoir went about
his business with quiet confidence. He was always ready to work, but never got overly excited. During training, a training
“bad guy” could fight and roll around with him, and when it was over, take off the bite sleeve or coat and immediately
pet Banjoir without any worry." I remember several times when we were working "Banj" would look back at me with a certain
look on his face.
This look was to remind me that I was holding the ‘dumb end’ of the leash, and I should probably let him go back to
doing his job so that he could make us both look good, which I did,” said Lt. Smith. Lt. Smith remembers being asked
on several occasions, “Why does a small town Police Department waste all that money on a canine unit?” He would take
the time to explain that Banjoir was purchased for the Police Department solely by donations. None of the Police Department
budget was needed to keep the canine program going. The Fairfield Veterinary Clinic made an arrangement to take
care of all of Banjoir’s medical needs while he was working for the Police Department.
“For all of those that were so gracious to give toward the Police Department Canine Fund, I want to thank you,”
said Lt. Smith. On December 28, 2009 Banjoir and Lt. Smith were called out to track a suspect after he fled the
scene of an accident. Banjoir immediately picked up the track, and continued to follow the track for 5 miles and nearly
2 hours before locating the suspect wrapped in a blanket, drinking coffee inside someone’s house. “I will never
forget the look on that person’s face when we knocked on the door,” said Lt. Smith.
On October 24, 2010 the Van Buren County Sherriff’s Office requested that Lt. Smith bring Banjoir down to perform
a free air sniff of a van that they’d stopped just south of Libertyville. Banjoir alerted to the vehicle, and approximately
one pound of marijuana was located and seized from inside the van. Van Buren County then asked if Lt. Smith and Banjoir
would accompany them to the house that they had seen the van leave from. A search warrant was requested for the residence
in Van Buren County based off of Banjoir’s free-air sniff along with other Intel that Van Buren County had.
When the search warrant was executed, Van Buren County seized 820 pounds of marijuana, marijuana growing equipment,
and marijuana manufacturing equipment. Approximately $8,000 from this one drug case went to purchase new equipment
for the new canine and new canine patrol vehicle. Banjoir retired from police work in 2011. His retirement was the
result of a promotion and his age, not because he lacked the desire to keep going. Banjoir accepted his retirement, but
each morning he followed Lt. Smith to the car, hoping that he could go back to work. He would wait patiently until
Lt. Smith returned home each day, and then greet him with a wagging tail and a smile on his face.
“He loved his exercise, which only required a Kong ball and the ability to throw it for hours,” said Lt. Smith. Lt. Smith
says that even though the past few days have been hard, he wouldn’t change any of it. He would gladly do it all over
again." My six year old said it best the other day when he told me that he was ok, because he knows that Banjoir is
watching over us. Although I miss him, I know that this is true. So thank you, Banj, for having my back all those times.
I know that you are waiting patiently, and someday you’ll greet me with that wagging tail and that smile on your face.
Until then," Rest In Peace, Buddy," said Lt. Smith. submitted by Jim Cortina, Dir. CPWDA
In Loving Memory of
K9 BRUNO
August 26, 2014
Handler: Officer Brian Kinney
Lowell Police Department
50 Arcand Dr.
Lowell, MA 01852
Lowell police dog Bruno mourned by many
If you were running from the law or trying to hide illegal drugs from police, Bruno the Lowell police canine was not a dog you
wanted to meet. At home with his handler and family, Bruno was just a playful pup. A barrel-chested German shepherd,
Bruno's strength and speed were used for more gentle pastimes around the home of his handler, Officer Brian Kinney,
who lived and worked with Bruno since the dog was 11 months old. "At home he'd roll onto his back and let my kids
scratch his belly," Kinney said. "His favorite thing was to go outside and for me to spray the hose. He'd attack it.
He loved the water, and he would absolutely jump 4 or 5 feet into the air and bite at the water."
"It was hysterical and my kids loved it." Kinney found Bruno dead in his kennel on the morning of Aug. 26, as Kinney
was getting ready for work. "He went to sleep in his kennel downstairs at 10 p.m.," Kinney said. "I woke up, got
dressed for work, and went down at 7:30 a.m. and found him. He looked like he was sleeping. He didn't look like
he was in distress." Kinney admits he still tears up when he thinks of his partner, and says he has decided not to
seek out another canine partner. Wednesday would have been Bruno's seventh birthday.
Kinney said his vet at Wignall Animal Hospital in Dracut believes Bruno was killed by bloat, a condition which causes a
dog's stomach to swell and move out of place. It can be fatal quickly. Tufts Animal Hospital is conducting an autopsy
to be sure. Bruno joined the Lowell Police Department in 2008 after he and Kinney graduated from the
Boston Police Canine Academy. Bruno was trained to help with searches for both suspects and those who were
lost or potentially in danger. He was trained in crowd control, and he was also a trained narcotics-detection dog, taking
part in dozens of drug investigations that led to major criminal cases in federal court and minor cases in Lowell District Court.
Kinney said over Bruno's six-year career, they took part in about 40 successful searches for individuals who were
either wanted or sought for well-being checks. They were also part of the
North Eastern Massachusetts Law Enforcement Council,
working with the Rapid Response and SWAT teams, and traveled to Boston and Watertown to assist police
responding to the Boston Marathon bombings and subsequent suspect search. Chelmsford Officer Dave Leo, also
a canine handler, said Kinney and Bruno were a great example of a well-rounded K-9 unit. "Bruno was a great,
mild-mannered dog off-duty -- fun to be around and he loved people," Leo said.
"But when it was time to work, Bruno was no joke. He was all business. He will truly be missed by the canine
community." With Kinney no longer working as a K-9 officer, Lowell police have only one working canine and
handler, but it remains unclear whether the department will add another dog now. Bruno was also well-known among
school children in Lowell, since he and Kinney would often perform demonstrations for students at events like
National Night Out. "Sometimes I'd be on patrol and a little boy or girl would come to me and say 'is Bruno in the car,"
Kinney said. Kinney said police K-9 aren't really considered pets, but that living with his partner led to unintended bonds.
"You can't help but fall in love with them," Kinney said. "He and I had a professional relationship, and then we
had a personal relationship, and it's the personal relationship that hurts the most for me."
submitted by Jim Cortina, Dir. CPWDA
In Loving Memory of
K9 BRUTUS
August 2014
Handler: Officer Bruce Rogers
Yakima Police Department
200 South Third Street
Yakima, WA 98901
Yakima Police Reports Death of Retired K-9 Brutus
The Yakima Police Department (YPD) is mourning the loss of one of their retired K-9 partners, Brutus. Brutus was the partner of
former YPD Officer Bruce Rogers. Brutus suffered what was believed to be a spinal tumor. Veterinarians attempted to prolong
Brutus' life with different medications, but his disease essentially took over, forcing Rogers to make the decision we all dread.
Officer Rogers selected Brutus when he was just nine months old. Rogers worked tirelessly training Brutus. Brutus spent seven
years as a YPD K-9 and apprehended hundreds of suspects and evidence. Many joking called Brutus the "Devil Dog", but no
matter what the situation was, he would go anywhere and do anything to locate a suspect or protect officers. No matter
if it was one suspect or multiple suspects fleeing, Brutus was great at finding them all. He was truly amazing at his job.
Brutus was only 9 years old and will be missed.
submitted by Jim Cortina, Dir. CPWDA
In Loving Memory of
K9 BLITZ
August 25, 2014
(need photo)
Handler: Officer Jimmy Myers
Columbus Police Department
Indiana
Retired police dog to take final ride today
Retired Columbus Police dog Blitz will take his final ride at about 3:30 p.m. today with a procession and police escort to the veterinarian. His handler, Officer Jimmy Myers said the 12-year-old dog has been retired for more than two years and is
living with the Myers family. In recent weeks the dog has been ill, and a trip to the vet revealed a cancerous tumor in
his abdomen. Myers said today at about noon, that Blitz will receive a police escort up State Road 11, to State Road 46
to the Hope Veterinarian Clinic in the Westhill Shopping Center. Myers said the escort was coordinated by Columbus
Mayor Kristen Brown and the Columbus Police Department. Final salutes will be given at the clinic and the euthanasia
appointment is set for 4 p.m. Myers estimates that he and Blitz spent 9,000 hours on patrol together. Blitz served
with the department for four years. Myers and Blitz made more than 300 arrests together. Blitz also sniffed out more
than 200 pounds of marijuana, three pounds of cocaine and 6 pounds of meth. Submitted by Jim Cortina, Dir. CPWDA
and happygirl2052 <happygirl2052@yahoo.com>
In Loving Memory of
K9 BUSTER
Date? July? August?
need photo and write up
K9 Officer S. Richardson
Keizer Police Department K9 Unit
930 Chemawa Rd. NE
Keizer OR 97303
503-390-3713 Ext. 3495
richardsons@keizer.org
In Loving Memory of
K9 BUDDY
July 5, 2014
(Need photo & handler's name)
Handler: ?
Guntur Rural Police
India
Police dog Buddy cremated
Guntur rural police conducted cremation ceremony for police dog Buddy Saturday at Rural SP office here.
The 11-year-old Buddy had been undergoing treatment for a kidney-related problem at Veterinary Hospital
for the past two months. Due to kidney failure Buddy died Saturday morning. Guntur rural additional
SP Srinivasa Rao and Guntur rural DSP Satyanarayana paid respects to the dog.
submitted by Jim Cortina, Dir. CPWDA
In Loving Memory of
K9 BUCK
June 24, 2014
Handler: Officer John Michaud
New London Police Dept.
5 Governor Winthrop Blvd.
New London, CT 06320
Retired New London police K-9 Buck has died of cancer
K9 Buck was euthanized this morning ( 6/24/14 )
Police announced Tuesday the death of retired police dog “Buck”, who passed away after a battle with cancer, according
to the New London Police Department Facebook page. Buck was retired from active service by the city in 2013 to be
cared for by his former handler, Officer John Michaud, and his family. Buck’s retirement, after reportedly
suffering from arthritis, raised controversy as it left just one K-9 team on the police force at the time. The union,
along with several City Council members, objected and collected money from outside groups to pay for medication
in hopes of bringing him back. Some had called his retirement by Mayor Daryl Justin Finizio politically motivated.
The City Council has since passed an ordinance mandating four police dog teams, though only two remain. Jasper,
a cross-trained German shepherd, is handled by Officer Todd Lynch, the department's K-9 training officer.
“Bessie,” a bloodhound who was previously retired when her handler took a different job, was paired with
Officer Jeffrey Nichols in September. submitted by Jim Cortina, Dir. CPWDA
In Loving Memory of
K9 BOSUM
June 23, 2014
 
Handler: Senior Constable Wayne Algie
Mudgeeraba - Australia
Hero police dog Bosun, who caught Damian Leeding’s killers, sadly dies
Bosun the wonder dog died this morning
Famed police dog Bosun has died just one year after retiring. The beloved German Shepherd, who caught the killers of Senior Constable Damian Leeding in 2011, passed away this morning after a short illness. Bosun tracked the gunman, Phillip Graeme Abell, into ``pitch-black’’ bushland after tracking him 350m into scrub on the fateful night. Bosun’s hander Senior-Constable Wayne Algie said the leash went slack and he drew his firearm and a torch to see the dog had bitten a man and was holding him by the left armpit. The nine-year-old dog died just months after receiving the Australian Defence Force Service Medal for his long career. The medal ceremony was his last public outing before retiring to the home of his handler, Sen-Const Algie. submitted by Jim Cortina, Dir. CPWDA
In Loving Memory of
K9 BOSCO
June 5, 2014
Handler: Sgt. Tracy
Atlantic City Police Department
NJ
It was a sad day in Linwood as dozens of local police officers said goodbye to one of their faithful K-9 partners.
Deputy Chief of the Atlantic City Police Department, James Pasquale, said, "It's definitely losing one of our own.
You know, we never forget our fallen brothers and sisters and we certainly don't forget our fallen K-9s."
On Thursday morning it was Atlantic City Police Sergeant William Tracy's time to say goodbye to his partner, “Bosco.”
Joe Rodriguez is the Supervising Trainer for the Atlantic County K-9 Academy and told NBC-40, "We all work together;
it's one big family. So...when we have a sad occasion like this; you know you make a call and everyone comes out
for it. He should be honored."
K9 Bosco was an 11 year old German Sheppard and he accompanied Sgt. Tracy on the force for five years.
Catalina Montealegre, a Veterinarian at the Red Bank Veterinary Hospital, said, "It's always difficult to
lose a dog - let alone one you've been working with that has been saving your life for the last 10 years.
On Thursday, members of the Atlantic City Police Department's K-9 unit, and other local K-9 teams, stood outside
the Red Bank Veterinary Hospital as Tracy and other family members said their final goodbyes to their loyal friend inside.
Rodriguez explained, "He provided a great service to Atlantic City and it's only fitting that in his final days the
guys come out and they honor him and send him off this way." Pasquale added, “When they retire, they
continue to be that family member, you know? They're like one of our kids."
Officials say Bosco has been retired for a few years and has been battling cancer for a while. And as sad as it
was to watch him go, the fellow K-9 officers know it's a bond that will never be broken,
and a team that will be remembered forever.
submitted by Jim Cortina, Dir. CPWDA & McMenamin, Monica <monicaMcMenamin@acpolice.org>
In Loving Memory of
K9 BUDDY
May 24, 2014
Handler: Sgt. Cole Langdon
Lynnwood Police Department
19321 44th Ave W
Lynnwood, WA 98036
Longtime Lynnwood Police dog "Buddy" passes away
A longtime police dog for the Lynnwood Police Department has passed away, the department announced Thursday. "Buddy"
had worked for the department for eight years before his retirement in February. He died Saturday after a long battle
with cancer, the department said. Buddy was a dual-purpose dog trained to locate hidden criminal suspects,
and missing persons, and trained to sniff out illegal drugs. Lynnwood police say Buddy was responsible for over 200
captures of criminals and hundreds of drug finds. He and his handler Sgt. Cole Langdon have received numerous
departmental awards for their service. "K-9 Buddy was a tremendous law enforcement asset to not only the
Lynnwood Police Department but to region as well," department officials wrote in a press release. Lynnwood police
say donations of support in honor of K-9 Buddy and the Lynnwood K-9 Division are gladly accepted at the
Lynnwood Police Department front desk or by mail to 19321 44th Ave W, Lynnwood,
Attention Lynnwood Police Officers Association (LPOA).
submitted by Jim Cortina, Dir. CPWDA
In Loving Memory of
K9 BLU
May 21, 2014
Handler: Officer Curt Dieterle
Maryland Natural Resources
580 Taylor Avenue
Annapolis, MD 21401
Canine officer loses battle with disease
Blu, the Maryland Natural Resources Police K-9 tracking dog that had been deployed more than 200 times since 2006, was euthanized May 21 after dealing with lymphoma for almost two years. A black Labrador retriever, Blu was 10 and had been retired in February. Officer Curt Dieterle was his handler. “Blu will be missed by the community as a whole and specifically by the law enforcement community,” said Dieterle on Wednesday morning. “Blu was a people magnet and a great public relations representative. I never saw him bare his teeth. He was a gentle giant,” he said of the 88-pound canine officer.
In spite of his affability, Blu threw the switch when it came time to go into work mode, according to his handler. Not all of those chores had to do with violations of fish and wildlife laws. Blu was not only a tracking dog, but trained as well to detect articles. He would alert if something was out of place in the particular environment he was searching. “The one that stands out to me is the child abduction case,” Dieterle said, referring to August 2010 when Stephen Westfall, then 44, abducted and beat a 6-year-old girl. Westfall avoided capture for about two weeks. He is now imprisoned.
Dieterle said authorities had traced Westfall’s cell phone to an area of 100 square yards along the C&O Canal towpath near the bridge to Wiley Ford, but could not find it.
“There was some thought that he may have committed suicide because the location of the phone had not moved,” Dieterle said. Dieterle said State’s Attorney Michael Twigg asked him to bring Blu to the site, where a manual search by officers had not been fruitful. “The grass was about 30 inches high and after 10 minutes Blu alerted,” Dieterle said. “I spread the grass apart and there was the phone.” Dieterle said the phone provided important evidence in the ongoing search.
Blu received numerous official recognitions for his work. As recently as May 5 the dog was honored by the Allegany County Office of the Sheriff at an awards ceremony.
Blu’s last case was in December when he tracked an illegal hunter in Frederick County. The hunter was found and charged for hunting without permission and failure to wear fluorescent orange. In October 2011, Blu tracked a lost woman and her dogs for more than five miles in the wooded mountains between Frostburg and Mount Savage, eventually finding them. “The Trooper 5 pilot landed the helicopter so he could meet Blu,” Dieterle said.
“He said he had flown over a lot of tracking dogs and never seen one go that far on a successful track.” The best compliment about Blu ever received by Dieterle came from a thief. “He told the arresting officers ‘You never would have caught me if it wasn’t for that (expletive deleted) dog.’” Dieterle said he is grateful to the NRP for the agency’s reaction to Blu’s illness. “The department stepped up and paid for chemotherapy twice,” he said. As Dieterle recalls his relationship with Blu, sitting at his feet, wanting a ball to be tossed, is Ben, a 2-year-old black Lab in training to be a tracking dog. “Blu will never be replaced,” Dieterle said. “But we’ll just keep working and see how it goes, won’t we, Ben,” he added, patting the young Lab on the head.
submitted by Jim Cortina, Dir. CPWDA
In Loving Memory of
MISS BEAZLEY
(First family dog of the United States)
October 28, 2004 - May 17, 2014
U.S. President George W. Bush & Laura Bush
( our sincere sympathy)
Miss Beazley, former President George W. Bush's beloved Scottish terrier, has died. Bush's office announced Saturday that Miss Beazley was "put to rest" this weekend after battling cancer. She was nearly 10 years old. The statement says Miss Beazley was "a source of joy" during Bush's time in Washington and in Dallas, where he and his wife, Laura, live. Miss Beazley was born in October 2004. The pooch was later presented to Laura Bush as a birthday president from her husband. The family pet was featured in a December 2005 video, "A Very Beazley Christmas" -- a look at White House holiday life presented from the a dog's point of view.
The dog was named for the character Uncle Beazley, a dinosaur in Oliver Butterworth's children's book, "The Enormous Egg."
Miss Beazley (born October 28, 2004; died May 17, 2014) is an American Scottish Terrier, belonging to former
U.S. President George W. Bush and former U.S. First Lady Laura Bush.[2]
Miss Beazley's father, a Scottish terrier named Clinton, was born on November 7, 2000. Clinton was the half-brother
of the Bushes' first Scottish terrier, Barney. Miss Beazley's mother, Blackwatch Elizabeth, was bred by dog
breeder Patricia Gilmore of Livingston, New Jersey. Gilmore would also breed Miss Beazley, a purebred
Scottish terrier who was born in 2004.
Miss Beazley was adopted as a birthday present from President Bush to First Lady Laura Bush. She moved into the
White House as a ten-week old puppy on January 6, 2005, shortly before the beginning of President Bush's
second term in office. The First Lady and her daughters, Barbara and Jenna Bush, named their
new dog after a character from Oliver Butterworth's 1956 children's book, "The Enormous Egg."
Miss Beazley and the Bushes' first Scottish terrier, Barney, became well known White House pets.
In 2005, Miss Beazley and Barney were featured in the White House Christmas video,
A Very Beazley Christmas, for her first holiday in the White House.
Miss Beazley continued to live in Texas with the former presidential family until her passing.
Barney and Miss Beazley are honored with a bronze sculpture at the George W. Bush Library.
submitted by Jim Cortina, Dir. CPWDA
In Loving Memory of
K9 BIANCA
April 10, 2014
Handler: Deputy Tom Thompson
Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office
#1 Criminal Justice Drive
Conroe, TX 77301
Legendary MCSO narcotics detection K-9, Bianca, who helped make more than $12 million in drug seizures during her seven career, and who retired due to illness September 10, 2012, was humanely euthanized April 10 after a malignant melanoma had taken over her body.
Since retiring September 10, 2012, she had enjoyed the good life, replete with her own room in Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office deputy Tom Thompson’s house. With her own queen-sized bed, a T.V. at her whimsy, and a framed picture of herself hanging on the wall over her bed, retired MCSO narcotics detection K-9, Bianca, was more than just a partner to her handler, Thompson. She was family. “She was my partner, my protector, she was my best friend,” Thompson said. Bianca, a purebred German Shepherd, who lived and worked side-by-side with Thompson every day from the time he first picked her up in Indiana at three-years-old in 2005, until her retirement in 2012, died April 10 after doctors, and Thompson, concluded the prized canine had suffered too much pain from a combination of ailments that included arthritis, a ruptured disc, and a malignant melanoma.
“I don’t know where to start,” Thompson said. “She was the best of the best when it came to doing her job.” Mere days after arriving in Montgomery County in 2005, Bianca more than made her keep, Thompson said, leading sheriff’s deputies to a six-ounce heroin bust complete with a seizure of more than $30,000 cash. “She more than paid for herself as soon as she arrived,” Thompson said. At a purchase price of $8,000 for Bianca, Thompson said, “You can’t put a price on a good narcotics dog like her.” Stories of Bianca’s exploits during her more than 3800 deployments over the seven years she worked as Thompson’s partner include: over $12 million dollars in drug seizures that left Bianca with a bounty on her head from various drug gangs in the region — the MCSO didn’t publicize Bianca’s whereabouts too much, Thompson said, for both her and their safety.
“Our rewards were in what she did for us, so many drug seizures, and so much help in finding the dope. Bianca was super-smart,” Thompson said. Bianca saved Thompson’s life more than once, he said, was the ultimate protector, and helped make so many drug busts she was in demand to help work cases with Thompson on loan to the FBI, DEA and State Police. “Everybody knew Bianca was the best and everybody wanted her,” Thompson said. “They knew if she did alert to something, than they better start looking. "When arthritis and a ruptured disc forced her retirement in 2012, it took nearly nine months for Bianca to get over not going with Thompson to work everyday, he said.
Bianca was treated by veterinarian Dr. Scott Briers during the last decade of her life, Thompson said. “She loved my wife and would protect her, and lie down between her and a neighbor, if it was someone she didn’t trust or know,” Thompson said. “And when my grandson was born, that was her grandson, too,” Thompson said. “She would follow him around, and get in-between him if she knew he wasn’t supposed to be in something that could hurt him.” “She knew what I loved, and she loved it too. She was just an incredible dog. A remarkable dog. I hate to even call her a dog, she was just so special.”
submitted by Jim Cortina, Dir. CPWDA
In Loving Memory of
K9 BUZZ
14 March 2014
 
Handler: Michael Coutts
The Police Dog Training School in County Durham
Drugs Detection Dogs in the UK
Buzz worked for nine years as a drugs dog in Shetland
Local charity Dogs Against Drugs went into action more than 10 years ago with their very first drugs dog Buzz, who passed away earlier this month. Here project manager and dog trainer Michael Coutts talks about how it all began and Buzz's nine year career stopping drugs from entering these isles. It was the summer of 2002 and I headed down to the Borders to fetch Buzz. I was to meet with gun dog breeder Les Davidson at his home near the village of Gordon in Berwickshire. As I got one leg out of the car I was met with the sight of a six month old male black Labrador bounding towards me at full pelt. A happier meeting you couldn't wish for, we were going to hit it off and we both knew it.
Buzz came back to Shetland and stayed with me for a few months to bond (though we didn't need it) until he was one year old, and we then headed off to The Police Dog Training School in County Durham. We were both nervous of what was in store for us for the next six weeks but I had him and he had me, we knew we would be OK. The course initially involved scent identification of controlled drugs, this was done by placing a sample of the drug in small pots and using a tennis ball for a reward when the dog got a whiff of the scent. At no time was the dog allowed to touch the substance but had to get as close as he could without touching the pot, technically called "Going to Source".
Buzz was very good at this and picked up the idea of the game very quickly and enjoyed his tennis ball reward so much so that it was a regular visit to "replace bursts" to the sports shop for me for more tennis balls. The guy in the shop must have thought me very strange to buy so many tennis balls out of season as this was winter and snow was on the ground! But like any good Shetlander I love a bargain and they were half price. The training quickly moved on to hiding drugs on people, firstly low down on the body in their shoes and socks, but eventually getting higher until Buzz could detect drugs hidden under a hat on someone's head.
He had a very good indication and when he was "on the scent" he would have followed the "carrier" until the carrier stopped, even at jogging pace. When we got back to Shetland we had a few months to work on our new skills until our next course at the Dog School. Chief Inspector Andy Walker was the man in charge of Shetland Police at the time and he was very enthusiastic and supportive of our newly formed charity and the people who were behind it. Our first shift on duty Chief Inspector Walker had organized a police operation of a scan of the pubs and clubs doors in Lerwick and Buzz detected three people on that shift, two with personal amounts and one with dealer quantities, not bad for our first go and we were still learning.
The few months passed and in the summer of 2003 it was back down to Durham to do the second and final part of our training. This part involved active searching, a different style of searching than we were used to. Up until now all the scanning had been done on the lead but now we were having to learn to free search. This type of searching basically involved looking for the scent of controlled drugs everywhere (buildings, vehicles, outside areas etc). Buzz was already aware of what scents he had to look for and again picked up this style of scanning without much problem, and by the end of the course was finding all of the drugs.
Buzz was one of a new wave of Drugs Detection Dogs in the UK as he was classed as a "Dual Dog" - in times past you would have a body scanning dog or an area search dog. Buzz was one of the first to be both - a trial which is now in the present day a necessity, a trial which turned out to produce a high drive and efficient drugs search dog, but when he went home with me at night he was just Buzz the pet Labrador. Over the years he worked in Shetland, Buzz had very many drugs detections here is the story of just two of them that come instantly to mind. One morning we were on duty at the ferry terminal in Lerwick and were scanning passengers exiting the ferry.
A male in his 40s was approaching us, well dressed, pulling a trolley suitcase. As he came level with us Buzz was instantly interested in him and as he kept going past us Buzz was on the move and in his usual style when he was onto something, pulling so hard on the lead my arm was having difficulty remaining in the socket. We asked the gentleman to stop and Buzz gave his usual full sit indication in front of him looking up with bright eyes, if a dog could smile this would be a time when it would. As I looked at the gentleman's face he said nothing, but his facial expressions said to me: "Oh shit". He had £35,000 of multi-commodity drugs on his person and in his bag.
On another occasion we had intelligence from the police that drugs were due up soon to Shetland in a shoe box-sized package either by post or through the freight companies. For a few weeks we had been regularly looking. As a team we never gave up! One morning at one of the freight companies Buzz was showing a lot of interest in a cling film wrapped pallet of boxes which was in the freight shed. A quick word to one of the workers (they were always happy to help) and the plastic was cut off and the pallets contents were spread out. Buzz worked his way through the boxes and indicated on one.
As I moved the boxes out of the way to get a good look at the box he was interested in I thought: "Oh my God, it's a shoe box sized box." My heart was in my mouth. Buzz's tail was wagging so much it was like somebody hitting me with a length of rope. Buzz was given his tennis ball, which he instantly started to destroy and I looked at the address and reported back to the police what we had found. A short time later the box and the owner were in police custody. I went up to the CID office in Lerwick to witness the box being opened which was done carefully to preserve evidence and photographed at each dissection.
The brown paper packaging was removed to reveal the shoe box. Inside the shoe box was a lot of bubble wrap all taped up with something in the middle of it. This was like 'extreme pass the parcel' and I was so keen to see its contents, but procedures have to be taken and I knew I had to be patient. The item in the middle of the bubble wrap was a metal thermos flask, the two cup kind, sealed and complete with lid. The cup and lid were removed to reveal the most intense smell of Old Spice after shave (the CID office stank of it for weeks after).
It had been impregnated onto toilet paper and as it was being pulled out of the flask I estimated that it must have been about a full roll had been packed into the flask. After this had all been taken out and the windows opened, in the bottom of the flask £10,000 worth of heroin was removed. To answer the question: "How could the scent of heroin get to the outside of the packaging?" is relatively simple. Most people have had smoked fish for tea and the left over's placed in a plastic tub for the next days lunch. As you know, even by washing the tub after it still smells of fish as the scent of the fish has impregnated into the plastic, though through time this will dissipate.
The same theory applies to the rubber seal on the thermos flask and if anything the scent of the aftershave has helped carry the scent of the drugs to the outside of the package. On that day Buzz would have smelt many things on that package, the paper, the tape, the box, the thermos flask and rubber seal, the toilet paper, the aftershave and also the heroin. He would have then filtered these scents through his olfactory glands in his nose and this would have sent a message to his brain telling him heroin was present. Through this thought process, which would only have taken micro seconds, his main thought would have been: "Hurry up it's here, now give me the ball!"
Drugs detection wasn't Buzz's only line of work and he regularly came with me to schools all over Shetland to help me deliver our drugs education program to school pupils of all ages. Buzz was always good with the brains and would let them pet him and say hello. He was very gentle with the younger/smaller children and you could see a change in his demeanor when he was around them - if anything his gentle nature naturally went down a notch to ultra gentle and this would also happen when he paid visits to the ASN departments at the schools and you could see that everybody benefited from those visits by the smiles on the pupils faces.
Buzz worked for nine years as a drugs dog in Shetland and found hundreds of thousands of pounds of drugs during this time,
many Class A drugs which included heroin, cocaine and ecstasy. He retired at 10 years old and had two years of happy retirement living with me. Buzz loved to swim in the sea and run around and fetch stuff. One of his tricks off duty was to go to a burn and duck under the water and fetch back, in some cases, impossible sized stones, I always worried about his teeth, but it never affected him. Buzz was tough. Buzz passed away on 14 March 2014 peacefully and with no pain. Many thanks go to Jim Nicolson and the Westside Vets classes for all their kindness and help. Buzzes ashes are to be spread at Michael's Wood in Aith and a tree planted in his memory.
Dogs Against Drugs Charity has been running since 2001 and its commitment to Shetland is as strong as ever.
submitted by Jim Cortina, Dir. CPWDA
In Loving Memory of
K9 BENY
March 20, 2014
Handler: Officer Tim Fawcett
Saugus Police Department
27
Hamilton
Street
Saugus,
MA
01906
Saugus mourns Beny the police dog
The
Saugus
Police
Department
is
mourning
the
death
of
one
of
its
most
popular,
recognizable
and
surely
its
furriest
members,
retired
K-9
Beny.
“He
had
not
only
a
giant
head
but
a
giant
heart,”
said
K-9
Officer
Tim
Fawcett,
Beny’s
handler.
“He
knew
when
he
had
to
be a
police
dog
and
when
he
didn’t
…
besides
being
a
police
dog,
he
was
a
family
dog.”
K-9
Beny
was
purchased
by
the
department
in
2001
from
a
breeder
in
Central
Europe
(which
Fawcett
said
might
explain
why
there
is
only
one
“n”
in
his
name)
when
Beny
was
18
months
old.
After
extensive
training,
Beny
served
with
the
department
for
8½
years,
assisting
officers
with
traffic
stops
and
drug
arrests,
investigating
robbery
scenes
for
possible
suspects,
tracking
missing
persons
and
suspects,
and
many
other
tasks,
officers
said.
Beny retired in 2012. He died Thursday of old age at 14½ years old. And although the signs on the K-9 Unit cruiser warn people not to interfere with police dogs, officers said Beny was unique in his sociability. “He was very effective when it came to police work but was also a mild-mannered enough dog that we used him for public-relations events, bringing him into schools and to community demonstrations,” Saugus Police Chief Domenic DiMella said. Indeed, while not sniffing out illicit substances and scouting out crime scenes, Beny’s duties included presentations and demonstrations where countless hands inevitably reached out to pat him on the head.
Fawcett said some police dogs don’t like to be touched, but Beny was a popular guest. “When I do shows for children in the schools or the elderly, I want people to be able to pat the dogs if they want to,” said Fawcett. “Besides being a great protector, he was a great animal. He was just a wonderful, wonderful dog, one of a kind.” But Beny especially enjoyed the pats from his family: throughout his career and retirement, Beny lived with Fawcett and his wife, Debbie, and their 9-year-old son — and Beny’s best buddy — Tyler. “Beny was one in a million and meant the world to us,” Debbie Fawcett said in an email accompanying photos of Beny at home. “Although he is gone, he will never be forgotten.” submitted by Jim Cortina, Dir. CPWDA
In
Loving
Memory of
K9 BONNA
March 5,
2014
Handler:
Officer
Shane
Fletcher
Pearl Police
Department
2422
Old Brandon
Rd
Pearl, MS
39208
Department
mourns K9
hit by car
on Highway
Pearl Police
K9 Bonna was
found
Tuesday
night. She
had been hit
by a car on
Highway 49.
Pearl Police
Department.
Pearl Police
Department is
mourning the
loss of one of
their police K9s
today. Pearl K9
Bona had escaped
from her kennel
at her handler's
residence, which
is located on
Ebenezer Road,
near the
intersection of
South Pearson
Road. Police
Chief Ben
Schuler said she
was found
Tuesday night
around 11 p.m.
on Highway 49,
where she’d been
hit by a car.
Bona had been
with the agency
since 2009, and
had recently had
a good showing
at the 2014 US
K9 Certification
Trials in the
metro area last
month. “She was
special,” he
said. Hinds
County Chief
Deputy Chris
Picou, a
longtime K9
officer and
trainer, helped
pick Bona out
for Pearl, and
for handler
Officer Shane
Fletcher.
He said at the
K9 Certification
Trials, Bona
actually scored
high enough to
receive Top Dog
honors, though a
miscalculation
ranked her
second until the
mistake was
caught. “She was
very good. She
was an
exceptional dog.
I can’t say
enough good
things about
Bona. When we
trained, she
always got
better and
better,” he
said. “Every dog
is a little
stronger in some
areas than other
dogs, one may be
stronger in
obedience, some
in agility, she
was exceptional
in all of them
from tracking,
to apprehension,
to obedience to
narcotics. She
wasn’t weak in
any of those
areas, she just
enjoyed
working.”
Picou said
police dogs have
to be completely
unafraid of
vehicles, as
they work on the
roads and
interstates
every day. They
often do not
realize roadways
can pose a
threat. Picou
lost a K9, Rico,
in a house fire
in Lincoln
County several
years ago. He
said officers
can prepare
themselves to
lose their K9
partner after
the dog is
retired and as
nature runs its
course, but it’s
hard to lose a
K9 in the prime
of its career.
“When Shane got
Bona, he was a
new handler, and
Bona was a new
police dog.
Those two made
each other,” he
said.
“Bona was his
partner, he
relied on her,
she protected
him and watched
out for him.
It’s a different
relationship
than with a pet.
It’s a hard
thing to swallow
right now. Pray
for him.” Pearl
spokesman
Detective Jake
Windham said
this is a loss
that is felt by
the whole
department.
“She’s a part of
the family,” he
said. “We’re
going to miss
her.” Schuler
said the
department is
pulling together
details on
Bona’s service
to release to
the public. Hers
is not
considered a
line of duty
death. Bona’s
body will be
cremated, and
her ashes will
be given to
Fletcher.
submitted by Jim
Cortina, Dir.
CPWDA
In Loving Memory of
K9 BOOMER
February 14, 2014
Handler: Ofc. Kirk
Marino
Milford Police
Department
Delaware
My friend
Kirk Marino,
Milford PD laid his
partner Boomer to rest
today. Thinking of you
and your family during
these times . Boomer was
always interesting to
''catch'' cause you
never knew where he
would bite you or where
you would bleed from.
Thanks for your service
Boomer.
Fidelis
ad Mortem
Trust in me my friend
for I am
your comrade.
I will
protect you
with my last breath When
all
others have left you And
the
loneliness of the night
closes
in, I will be at your
side.
Together we will conquer
all
obstacles,
And search
out
those who might wish
harm to
others. All I ask of you
is
compassion,
The caring
touch
of your hands.
It is for
you that I
will unselfishly give my
life
And
spend my nights
untested.
Although our days
together.
May be marked by the
passing
of the seasons
Know that
each
day at your side is my
reward.
My days are measured
by Thecoming and going of your
footsteps. I anticipate
them at
every opening of the
door.
You
are the voice of caring
when I
am ill.
The voice of
authority
when I've done wrong.
Do not chastise me
unduly, for
I am your right arm,
The
sword
at your side. I attempt
to do
only what you
bid of me.
I seek
only to please you and
remain
in your favor.
Together you and I shall
experience A bond only
others
like us will understand
When
outsiders see us
together Their
envy will be measured by
their
disdain.
I will quietly listen to
you And
pass no judgment,and
Nor
will your
spoken words be repeated
I will
remain
ever silent, Ever
vigilant,ever loyal. And when our
time
together is done And you
moveon in the world Remember
me
with kind thoughts and
tales,For a time we were
unbeatable,
Nothing passed among us
undetected.
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.
submitted by
k9dawn@aol.com
In Loving Memory of
K9 BUDDY
February, 2014
Handler: PC Rich Brooks
Gloucestershire Police
Department
England
'Once in a
lifetime'
Gloucestershire
police
sniffer dog
Buddy
mourned
He was responsible
for busting
somewhere in the
region of 2,000
crimes, so it’s no
wonder police
sniffer dog Buddy is
being remembered as
a ‘once in a
lifetime’ find. The
colly-cross springer
has departed for the
great dog bed in the
sky too soon, aged
just nine, after
dying suddenly last
week. He joined
Gloucestershire
police after being
spotted by his
handler PC Rich
Brooks as a stray at
Battersea Dogs Home
in 2006. His patient
temperament and keen
work ethic made him
a perfect candidate
to be trained as a
passive drugs dog
and he did not
disappoint.
Buddy was deployed
in just about every
corner of the county
in his time on the
mean streets and
will have been a
particularly
familiar site to
revelers in
Gloucester,
Cheltenham and
Stroud, joining
night-time patrols
to sniff out
anything suspicious.
He was also used to
search premises and
vehicles for drugs
and most recently
was working with PC
Brooks on the Force
Crime Operations
team. It’s been a
painful few days for
PC Brooks who has
had to come to terms
with losing his
friend so
unexpectedly.
Buddy’s passing is
believed to be
linked to bruising
he developed on his
neck, not caused in
the course of
action.
“Bud’s passing was
very sudden and
upsetting,” said PC
Brooks. “He was a
once in a lifetime
dog and an absolute
pleasure to work
with. “He was also a
tremendous asset for
the constabulary and
was responsible, I
believe, for at
least 2,000 arrests
and drug finds.
Passive drugs dogs
are very rare finds
because they need to
have the right
temperament among
large crowds of
people and have a
good search ethic as
well." Bud was the
envy of many other
forces and came with
me to help on
operations in Devon
and Cornwall, the
Met and Avon and
Somerset. “The
people of
Gloucestershire were
lucky to have him on
their side though.
“I’d like to thank
everyone who has
sent messages of
support and paid
tribute to Bud on
social media though.
It means a great
deal.” PC Brooks
found him as a stray
at Battersea Dogs
Home after the dog
he had taken to a
training course in
Surrey had proved
unsuitable for
passive drugs work.
submitted by Jim
Cortina, Dir. CPWDA
In
Loving Memory of
K9 BOBI
January 2014
Evansville
Police Department
15 NW Martin Luther King,
Jr. Blvd.
Evansville, IN 47708
A retired Evansville Police K9
Officer has been laid to rest
weeks after retiring. The
Evansville Police Department
posted on their Facebook page, "We are saddened to announce the passing of
retired EPD K-9 Bobi. Bobi had
retired
earlier this month after many years of service to the citizens of
Evansville. Bobi was laid to
rest today at the
FOP K-9 Cemetery. Rest In Peace,
Bobi." Bobi spent eight years
with EPD. He apprehended more
than 80
felons and took a countless number of drugs and narcotics off the streets.
Bobi's final call was broadcast
on January 7.
Video of K9 Bobi -
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PF2RgC2-Dsk
submitted by Jim Cortina, Dir.
CPWDA
In Loving Memory of
K9 BENTON
January 9, 2014
Handlers:
1st Officer Chris Eaton
2nd Detective Eli Fowlkes
3rd Officer Hunter Begoon
Benton Police Department
100 S East St.
Benton, AR 72015
Benton police mourn loss
of K9 'Benton'
Benton police are mourning the loss of their
K-9 'Benton' Thursday morning after a brief
illness. Police Chief Kirk Lane released
this Thursday afternoon: It is with great
sadness and regret that we announce the
passing of our K-9 'Benton' early this
morning after a brief illness. Benton was
recently diagnosed with Lyme Disease and was
being treated for it, and appeared to be
improving. On the morning of Wednesday,
January 8th, he started taking a turn for
the worst and after his arrival at the
veterinary hospital it was discovered he was
also suffering from an autoimmune disease.
Benton's condition started deteriorating
rapidly and he passed away during the
morning hours of January 9th. Benton was
born in 2008 and graduated from the Little
Rock K-9 Academy in the spring of 2009 and
started with his first handler, former
Officer Chris Eaton, immediately afterwards.
In 2010, Detective Eli Fowlkes took over as
Benton's handler until recently when Officer
Hunter Begoon took over and was his handler
at the time of his passing. Benton was a
black Labrador Retriever and was trained in
narcotics detection. Benton's name was
chosen by holding a contest among local 3rd
graders at the time.
They submitted a name and an essay
explaining why the name they came up with
should be chosen. Student Autumn Myers, who
was a student at Ringgold Elementary School
at the time, named Benton after the city she
loves. Over the course of his career, Benton
and Det. Fowlkes were directly involved in
the seizure of over 9 lbs. of cocaine, 48
lbs. of methamphetamine, 20 lbs. of
marijuana, and over $100,000 in drug
proceeds. They were also directly involved
in the seizure of several vehicles used to
transport illegal narcotics, three of which
had electronically operated compartments
used to conceal the drugs.
During his career, Benton helped to not
only rid the streets of illegal narcotics,
but he also touched many other people's
lives through the numerous community events
he attended and special programs for kids.
During Benton's time at the veterinary
hospital, the entire K-9 team members used
their own time to be with him in an effort
to comfort him during his illness. Benton's
service is appreciated beyond words and we
will miss him immensely.
submitted by Jim Cortina, Dir. CPWDA
In Loving Memory of
K9 BAXTER
January 7, 2014
Handlers:
1ST- Officer Zach Hild
2ND- Officer Evan Roehlk
3RD- Officer Bryce Alcorn
Reedley Police Department
843 "G" Street
Reedley, CA 93654
Drug detection dog dies
K9 Baxter – a black Labrador retriever that sniffed
out narcotics for the Reedley Police Department –
died on Tuesday,
Jan. 7. He was euthanized on a veterinarian's
recommendation after being diagnosed with a terminal
illness, said Reedley Police Lt. Marc Ediger. "There
is great sadness for us," Ediger said. "He was a
well liked and respected member of the department
even though he was only a canine." Baxter was 8
years old. He joined the Reedley Police Department
as a K-9 officer in 2009 after working with the
Fresno County Probation Department. Ediger said
Baxter worked with three handlers: now-retired
Officer Zach Hild, Officer Evan Roehlk and his
current partner, Officer Bryce Alcorn.
Roehlk is now
the handler for another K-9 officer, Leo. Leo joined
the department last year and is trained to both
detect drugs as well as protect officers and help
catch suspects. The police department expected
Baxter to work for another two years, Ediger said.
But he became ill, and a veterinarian began running
tests last week. The vet concluded that Baxter had
either leukemia or another type of blood cancer,
Ediger said. K-9 officers live with their police
officer handlers, and they develop a strong bond. In
a story that ran last year in The Exponent, Roehlk
joked that Baxter was not a fighter, but rather "a
big baby. He'll come up and lean against your leg
and nudge you to pet him." Baxter was assigned to
Alcorn when Roehlk took charge of Leo. Said Ediger:
"Our thoughts are with the handlers, and the rest of
the department."
submitted by Jim Cortina, Dir. CPWDA
In Loving Memory of
K9 BEAR
January 1, 2014
 
Handler:
Cpl. John Ross -
jross323@yahoo.com
Atchison Police Department
515 Kansas Ave.
Atchison, KS
66002 WEBSITE -
http://www.cityofatchison.com/department/?fDD=8-0
Police department
loses dog to illness
Members of a northeast
Kansas police department are mourning the loss of a four-legged
colleague known for helping
crack big cases and letting children pat his tummy. The Atchison
Police Department's tracking and narcotics
detection dog Bear died Wednesday of a terminal medical condition. The
department says Bear died
surrounded by fellow officers, and a private memorial service is planned
next week. Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson
said Bear came to the department in January 2008 and worked with Cpl. John
Ross. The dog assisted the
biggest methamphetamine and high grade marijuana seizure in
department history. He also helped track down
and apprehend a dangerous felon. Bear was also known for being gentle with
schoolchildren, sitting patiently
while they patted his belly.
submitted by Jim Cortina,
Dir. CPWDA
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Memorials
to Fallen K-9s