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Handler – Lieutenant Chad Murtaugh
TPD mourns the loss of K9 officer Riggs
With heavy hearts and minds, we’re sad to announce the End of Watch for K9 Riggs. Riggs graduated from the K9 Academy and started patrol with Tulsa Police in 2012. He retired on 5/12/2020 after serving for eight years. During the course of his career, K9 Riggs won the regional USPCA (United States Police Canine Association) Championship for both Obedience and Apprehension work. Riggs made an impressive 88 violent felony apprehensions during his career, and numerous others surrendered just at the sight of his presence. His handler, Lieutenant Murtaugh, says Riggs saved his life and other officers’ lives countless times. Riggs loved attention and often brought smiles to the faces of everyone when he walked in the room, often seeking belly rubs and scratches for an optimal 20 seconds before moving on to the next happy to see him person in the room. Riggs also loved visiting 2nd graders each year after they read the book “K9 Arrow” and getting to answer, or bark, at all of their questions. He often met the kindergarteners at Holland Hall, and during the COVID-19 pandemic, Riggs made appearances with Tulsa Crime Stoppers on their virtual reading sessions. Riggs was also a familiar face at 911 Dispatch and would stop by to visit with dispatchers on their breaks. Riggs passed away this week under the care of the Murtaugh family. Our hearts are with them, and we are forever grateful for the service, dedication, and the many smiles Riggs brought to all of us here at Tulsa Police.
