A Tribute to our heroes
K9 Argus
Retirement 6/1/2020
It is with mixed emotions that we announce the retirement of K9 Argus from Vermont State Police. We have been honored to have K9 Argus protecting the State of Vermont for the last 10 years. We will greatly miss working with Argus, but are very happy that he will be able to enjoy his retirement with his family and friends. We wish you all the best and thank you for your dedicated service! K9 Argus served for the Vermont State Police since 2009 at the young age of 8 weeks old. He started in the “puppy program” and was originally fostered by VSP Lt. Cacciatore (retired) and his family. K9 Argus was assigned to Trooper Eugene Duplissis. The team began their partnership at the St. Johnsbury Barrack. K9 Argus was certified for drug detection at 7-months old. From a young age, K9 Argus proved to be a valuable addition to the K9 program when he located crack cocaine concealed in a hidden compartment before he even turned 1 year old. Argus was later certified in patrol and tracking. Throughout his decade long career, Argus had several successful tracks, including tracking a bank robber to her nearby hotel room while also locating clothing and evidence along the way. As the team’s career progressed, Trooper Duplissis was promoted to Sergeant and assigned as a patrol commander to the New Haven Barracks. While in New Haven, Argus worked with his brother, K9 Vincent, covering Addison county. Argus' family tree clearly has exceptional qualities, because his son, K9 Burke, also works for the Vermont State Police. Sgt. Duplissis tried out for the Vermont State Police Tactical Team, and with the support of then Colonel L’Esperance, Major Goodell, and team commanders, K9 Argus and Sgt. Duplissis were the first K9 team to be assigned to a State Police Tactical Team in New England. K9 Argus was involved in numerous high-risk arrests and apprehensions throughout the state during his time assigned to this team. While assigned to the tactical team, K9 Argus worked with the New York State Police in the Dannemora search for two armed and dangerous escapees. K9 Argus searched numerous camps and routinely scouted out in front of the team during the manhunt. Over the span of 10 years K9 Argus repeatedly and fearlessly put himself out in front of his handler and other Troopers to keep them safe. He tracked violent criminals and assisted with the apprehension of numerous suspects. Because of his dedicated service, K9 Argus helped to keep the people of this great state safe. During his career, K9 Argus was awarded the lifesaving award, tracking team of the year, a citation from Governor Schumlin for his role in Dannemora, New York, and most importantly, the admiration and thanks from the brave Troopers, Officers, and Agents he was proud to work alongside.We have a message from his handler, Sgt. Duplissis:
“At the end of his career it is important to reflect and give thanks to the support provided to Argus and the K9 program. Many thanks to the Vermont Police Canine Association, with a strong emphasis on the work that Emily Leinoff and Retired Cpl. Hunter have done. Argus was honored to receive support from Vested Interest in K9s, Inc., for a great vest that protected Argus on many missions. Many thanks go to the numerous veterinarians and staff, including BEVS and Middlebury Animal Hospital. Another very special thank you to Lacey's Fund, which provides medical care for retired police K9s.
Argus’ legacy of public safety with the Vermont State Police Tactical Team now continues with K9 Igor and his handler Trooper Thompson."
Retirement 6/1/2020
It is with mixed emotions that we announce the retirement of K9 Argus from Vermont State Police. We have been honored to have K9 Argus protecting the State of Vermont for the last 10 years. We will greatly miss working with Argus, but are very happy that he will be able to enjoy his retirement with his family and friends. We wish you all the best and thank you for your dedicated service! K9 Argus served for the Vermont State Police since 2009 at the young age of 8 weeks old. He started in the “puppy program” and was originally fostered by VSP Lt. Cacciatore (retired) and his family. K9 Argus was assigned to Trooper Eugene Duplissis. The team began their partnership at the St. Johnsbury Barrack. K9 Argus was certified for drug detection at 7-months old. From a young age, K9 Argus proved to be a valuable addition to the K9 program when he located crack cocaine concealed in a hidden compartment before he even turned 1 year old. Argus was later certified in patrol and tracking. Throughout his decade long career, Argus had several successful tracks, including tracking a bank robber to her nearby hotel room while also locating clothing and evidence along the way. As the team’s career progressed, Trooper Duplissis was promoted to Sergeant and assigned as a patrol commander to the New Haven Barracks. While in New Haven, Argus worked with his brother, K9 Vincent, covering Addison county. Argus' family tree clearly has exceptional qualities, because his son, K9 Burke, also works for the Vermont State Police. Sgt. Duplissis tried out for the Vermont State Police Tactical Team, and with the support of then Colonel L’Esperance, Major Goodell, and team commanders, K9 Argus and Sgt. Duplissis were the first K9 team to be assigned to a State Police Tactical Team in New England. K9 Argus was involved in numerous high-risk arrests and apprehensions throughout the state during his time assigned to this team. While assigned to the tactical team, K9 Argus worked with the New York State Police in the Dannemora search for two armed and dangerous escapees. K9 Argus searched numerous camps and routinely scouted out in front of the team during the manhunt. Over the span of 10 years K9 Argus repeatedly and fearlessly put himself out in front of his handler and other Troopers to keep them safe. He tracked violent criminals and assisted with the apprehension of numerous suspects. Because of his dedicated service, K9 Argus helped to keep the people of this great state safe. During his career, K9 Argus was awarded the lifesaving award, tracking team of the year, a citation from Governor Schumlin for his role in Dannemora, New York, and most importantly, the admiration and thanks from the brave Troopers, Officers, and Agents he was proud to work alongside.We have a message from his handler, Sgt. Duplissis:
“At the end of his career it is important to reflect and give thanks to the support provided to Argus and the K9 program. Many thanks to the Vermont Police Canine Association, with a strong emphasis on the work that Emily Leinoff and Retired Cpl. Hunter have done. Argus was honored to receive support from Vested Interest in K9s, Inc., for a great vest that protected Argus on many missions. Many thanks go to the numerous veterinarians and staff, including BEVS and Middlebury Animal Hospital. Another very special thank you to Lacey's Fund, which provides medical care for retired police K9s.
Argus’ legacy of public safety with the Vermont State Police Tactical Team now continues with K9 Igor and his handler Trooper Thompson."
K9 Drager
We are so sad to hear this news from Vermont State Police. You will be greatly missed K9 Drager, thank you for your service!
“It is with deep sadness that we report the passing of K9 Drager, shown here with his partner of 10 years, Sergeant Rick Slusser. Drager passed away late last week after a sudden illness.
Drager began his training in 2010, when he was 8 months old, and served the State of Vermont faithfully for 10 years. Throughout his career he worked closely with our Narcotics Investigation Unit. Drug Enforcement Administration - DEA, Department of Homeland Security, and the ATF. He seized over $2 million worth of drugs throughout his career.
The Vermont Police Canine Association has honored them as the K9 Team of the Year, and five times as the Drug Detection Team of the Year. We thank K9 Drager for his faithful years of service to the department and the community.” ~ @vtstatepolice
We are so sad to hear this news from Vermont State Police. You will be greatly missed K9 Drager, thank you for your service!
“It is with deep sadness that we report the passing of K9 Drager, shown here with his partner of 10 years, Sergeant Rick Slusser. Drager passed away late last week after a sudden illness.
Drager began his training in 2010, when he was 8 months old, and served the State of Vermont faithfully for 10 years. Throughout his career he worked closely with our Narcotics Investigation Unit. Drug Enforcement Administration - DEA, Department of Homeland Security, and the ATF. He seized over $2 million worth of drugs throughout his career.
The Vermont Police Canine Association has honored them as the K9 Team of the Year, and five times as the Drug Detection Team of the Year. We thank K9 Drager for his faithful years of service to the department and the community.” ~ @vtstatepolice
K9 Ranger
Partner: Sgt. Chad Barrett
E.O.W. February 6, 2018
It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Retired VT Fish and Wildlife K9 Ranger. Ranger passed on February 6th, surrounded by his handler, VT Game Warden Sgt. Chad Barrett, and family. Ranger was a chocolate lab.Ranger was on the road with Sgt. Barrett for five years before retiring and taking on his new role as guardian and play mate to the Barrett family. While on the road, Ranger was trained in man tracking and evidence recovery. Ranger always made a welcoming impression wherever he went and was a valuable asset to the VT Fish and Wildlife Dept.
Rest in peace K9 Ranger. Keep on tracking.
Partner: Sgt. Chad Barrett
E.O.W. February 6, 2018
It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Retired VT Fish and Wildlife K9 Ranger. Ranger passed on February 6th, surrounded by his handler, VT Game Warden Sgt. Chad Barrett, and family. Ranger was a chocolate lab.Ranger was on the road with Sgt. Barrett for five years before retiring and taking on his new role as guardian and play mate to the Barrett family. While on the road, Ranger was trained in man tracking and evidence recovery. Ranger always made a welcoming impression wherever he went and was a valuable asset to the VT Fish and Wildlife Dept.
Rest in peace K9 Ranger. Keep on tracking.
K9 Max
Partner: Jeremy Perkins, Lebanon, NH Police Department
E.O.W. December 11, 2017
Lebanon Police Department K9 Max succumbed to cancer when he was euthanized after a long and courageous battle. K9 Max, a Belgian Malinois, joined the department in 2007 and was trained by his handler, Officer Jeremy Perkins. K9 Max spent the next ten years in dedicated service to the Lebanon Police Department, the City of Lebanon, and their residents. Over the years, K9 Max was responsible for countless drug seizures, apprehensions and rescues. All Lebanon Police K9 teams train at the Vermont Police Academy and on several occasions, Officer Perkins and K9 Max were awarded the Vermont Police K9 Patrol Team of the Year award. This past year, K9 Max had several surgeries to remove cancerous tumors from his body. Despite his cancer diagnosis and ongoing treatment, K9 Max continued to work along with Officer Perkins and they were an effective team until the very end. In November, K9 Max underwent a serious and invasive surgery to remove another cancerous tumor. Within a week of that surgery, K9 Max was back on patrol with Officer Perkins continuing to battle and continuing to serve their City. K9 Max spent his last day on patrol with his handler doing his duty, as he did for the last ten years. At approximately 1:00 PM, K9 Max and Officer Perkins arrived at the Stonecliff Animal Hospital where K9 Max entered the facility through a receiving line of police officers rendering a salute. After his passing, K9 Max was given his last radio call before being escorted by Lebanon Police Department cruisers to SAVES in Lebanon, where he was given one final send off before being cremated.
Partner: Jeremy Perkins, Lebanon, NH Police Department
E.O.W. December 11, 2017
Lebanon Police Department K9 Max succumbed to cancer when he was euthanized after a long and courageous battle. K9 Max, a Belgian Malinois, joined the department in 2007 and was trained by his handler, Officer Jeremy Perkins. K9 Max spent the next ten years in dedicated service to the Lebanon Police Department, the City of Lebanon, and their residents. Over the years, K9 Max was responsible for countless drug seizures, apprehensions and rescues. All Lebanon Police K9 teams train at the Vermont Police Academy and on several occasions, Officer Perkins and K9 Max were awarded the Vermont Police K9 Patrol Team of the Year award. This past year, K9 Max had several surgeries to remove cancerous tumors from his body. Despite his cancer diagnosis and ongoing treatment, K9 Max continued to work along with Officer Perkins and they were an effective team until the very end. In November, K9 Max underwent a serious and invasive surgery to remove another cancerous tumor. Within a week of that surgery, K9 Max was back on patrol with Officer Perkins continuing to battle and continuing to serve their City. K9 Max spent his last day on patrol with his handler doing his duty, as he did for the last ten years. At approximately 1:00 PM, K9 Max and Officer Perkins arrived at the Stonecliff Animal Hospital where K9 Max entered the facility through a receiving line of police officers rendering a salute. After his passing, K9 Max was given his last radio call before being escorted by Lebanon Police Department cruisers to SAVES in Lebanon, where he was given one final send off before being cremated.
K9 Rufus
Partner: Rob Sterling, VT Department of Fish & Wildlife
E.O.W. October 6, 2017
Warden Rob Sterling laid his K9 partner Rufus to rest last week. Rufus was an incredible asset to Sterling, from locating a missing elderly woman, to finding a pair of pants in a swamp that were ditched by a suspected shooter and car-jacker with $4,000 cash in the pocket. He was crucial in finding shell casings in multiple poaching arrests, and he once led Sterling from an illegal deer straight to the suspect's back door. Sterling said of his partner, "I know he's a dog, but he was my tight partner on some really tough calls over the years. Rufus has made this job for me even better and more incredible than I could have ever imagined."
Thank you Rufus for a lifetime of service to the Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department, and to the people of Vermont.
Partner: Rob Sterling, VT Department of Fish & Wildlife
E.O.W. October 6, 2017
Warden Rob Sterling laid his K9 partner Rufus to rest last week. Rufus was an incredible asset to Sterling, from locating a missing elderly woman, to finding a pair of pants in a swamp that were ditched by a suspected shooter and car-jacker with $4,000 cash in the pocket. He was crucial in finding shell casings in multiple poaching arrests, and he once led Sterling from an illegal deer straight to the suspect's back door. Sterling said of his partner, "I know he's a dog, but he was my tight partner on some really tough calls over the years. Rufus has made this job for me even better and more incredible than I could have ever imagined."
Thank you Rufus for a lifetime of service to the Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department, and to the people of Vermont.
K9 Milo
Partner: Robert Ryan, Vermont Police Academy/Barre City PD
E.O.W. September 6, 2017
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of K9 Milo, who became ill. K9 Milo's handler is lead K9 Training Coordinator Robert Ryan of the Vermont Police Academy and retired from the Barre City Police Department. K9 Milo is T.C. Ryan's fifth K9 partner, which is almost unheard of for a K9 handler career. The team has been together for four years, since Milo was a pup. He was named by T.C. Ryan's daughter. Our thoughts are with T.C. Ryan and all of his family and friends during this difficult time.
Partner: Robert Ryan, Vermont Police Academy/Barre City PD
E.O.W. September 6, 2017
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of K9 Milo, who became ill. K9 Milo's handler is lead K9 Training Coordinator Robert Ryan of the Vermont Police Academy and retired from the Barre City Police Department. K9 Milo is T.C. Ryan's fifth K9 partner, which is almost unheard of for a K9 handler career. The team has been together for four years, since Milo was a pup. He was named by T.C. Ryan's daughter. Our thoughts are with T.C. Ryan and all of his family and friends during this difficult time.
K9 Buck
Partner: Trooper Joe Duca, Vermont State Police
E.O.W.: June 23, 2017
From the Rutland Herald:
On June 23, Joseph Duca got the news every animal owner dreads: Buck, a Belgian Malinois who was only about 5, was sick and unlikely to recover. Duca agreed the dog should be euthanized, but it was more than making a decision about a pet because Duca is a trooper with the Vermont State Police and he was the handler for K-9 Buck. After Buck was gone, Duca, who is assigned to the Rutland barracks, said a retired trooper and K-9 handler came to his home to explain that he needed to share the loss he felt. Duca started by listening to his phone messages. “So the first six voice mails I listened to were coworkers and friends and they were all crying on the phone, which I wasn’t expecting because I just kinda thought, ‘Hey, this is my dog. This is my thing to go through,’” Duca said.
“That retired trooper was right. I had to talk to other people about it because I wasn’t the only one upset and grieving. I wasn’t the only one who lost something,” he said. “Yeah, he might have been my dog, he might have lived with me, but it’s a big deal to a lot of people in Rutland County, southwestern Vermont. We went to calls all over the state.” Duca said Buck had helped him reach people in a different way. He said many physical confrontation were avoided just because of Buck’s presence and the dog was especially effective in reaching children.
“He was the best part of this job because it got me to interact with people at a different level. I wasn’t just the trooper that’s just showing up when bad things happen,” Duca said. “I got to sort of be preventative. I got to go to the schools, the preschools, the day cares, I got to go to all these places, get these unique opportunities with people.” A trooper since 2007, Duca said he spent a lot of time with a now-retired trooper, Cpl. Ed Hunter, and his K-9, Maximus. “When they retired, I thought, ‘Hey this is something I’m interested in doing,’” Duca said.
By the time an appropriate dog was found — Buck came from Milton — it was 2013. However, Duca said he and Buck, who was then 9 months old, struggled to find a real bond for the first four or five months because they hadn’t bonded before they started their training.
Duca said he was willing to work hard to overcome that challenge. “Being a K-9 handler isn’t just a 9-to-5, it’s a full lifetime commitment because it’s 24-7, 365 for the life of the dog, so we spent a ton of time together,” he said. “Every time he did something good, he got rewarded, whether it was play or treats or something like that.” Duca said he took Buck everywhere. He said he took to joking that his truck was Buck’s truck. Buck slept next to Duca’s bed and became “ besties” with Duca’s girlfriend. “The first year I had him, we were apart for maybe two days. If I went to the gas station to get a cup of coffee, he was in the gas station with me down at Stewart’s, sitting right next to me as I was pouring my coffee,” Duca said. “He went almost everywhere that I went. If he wasn’t in an establishment, he was probably out in the car waiting for me.” While it took a while to develop an emotional bond, Duca said Buck was a professional from the start.
Buck was dual-certified in drug work and in patrol work — which includes tracking, area search, building search, evidence recovery and personal protection. Asked about some of Buck’s best efforts, Duca talked about some of the earliest cases they handled. For instance, shortly after they went into the field in November 2013, they got a call to assist in the search of a woman who had been missing, during a snowstorm, for about 12 hours in western Rutland County. Buck started “air scenting” and led them to a ravine. Duca said he was exhausted after several hours of searching and needed a break but knew a helicopter was on the way. He said he pointed to an area on the map and said to the pilot, “That’s where you need to start your search.” Duca said he watched the helicopter fly in that direction and heard they found the woman right away. “If it hadn’t been for the terrain, we probably would have had our first find on what was practically our first call,” he said. A short time later, Duca was called to the scene of an assault by a group of people on a municipal police officer.
“When we got there, I opened my door, I reached back and I opened (Buck’s) door and someone yelled, ‘Police dog!’ and everyone ran,” he said. Duca said the timely arrival earned a smile for the save from the municipal officer, even though the officer had been hurt. “I could tell you stories all day long. I’ve been getting stories since this happened,” Duca said. A K-9 is not just a dog riding with an officer, Duca said. Buck was a best friend who was attuned to his partner. “Buck was very intuitive. I swear he could read my mind. I would think about something and then he’d do it,” he said. If the Vermont State Police want Duca to handle another K-9, he said he would be ready.
“If it was up to me, absolutely, positively, I’m ready go now,” he said. “I 100 percent want to do that. I want to continue with what Buck taught me. I learned a ton from him.” patrick.mcardle @rutlandherald.com http://www.rutlandherald.com/articles/state-police-lose-k-9-partner/
Partner: Trooper Joe Duca, Vermont State Police
E.O.W.: June 23, 2017
From the Rutland Herald:
On June 23, Joseph Duca got the news every animal owner dreads: Buck, a Belgian Malinois who was only about 5, was sick and unlikely to recover. Duca agreed the dog should be euthanized, but it was more than making a decision about a pet because Duca is a trooper with the Vermont State Police and he was the handler for K-9 Buck. After Buck was gone, Duca, who is assigned to the Rutland barracks, said a retired trooper and K-9 handler came to his home to explain that he needed to share the loss he felt. Duca started by listening to his phone messages. “So the first six voice mails I listened to were coworkers and friends and they were all crying on the phone, which I wasn’t expecting because I just kinda thought, ‘Hey, this is my dog. This is my thing to go through,’” Duca said.
“That retired trooper was right. I had to talk to other people about it because I wasn’t the only one upset and grieving. I wasn’t the only one who lost something,” he said. “Yeah, he might have been my dog, he might have lived with me, but it’s a big deal to a lot of people in Rutland County, southwestern Vermont. We went to calls all over the state.” Duca said Buck had helped him reach people in a different way. He said many physical confrontation were avoided just because of Buck’s presence and the dog was especially effective in reaching children.
“He was the best part of this job because it got me to interact with people at a different level. I wasn’t just the trooper that’s just showing up when bad things happen,” Duca said. “I got to sort of be preventative. I got to go to the schools, the preschools, the day cares, I got to go to all these places, get these unique opportunities with people.” A trooper since 2007, Duca said he spent a lot of time with a now-retired trooper, Cpl. Ed Hunter, and his K-9, Maximus. “When they retired, I thought, ‘Hey this is something I’m interested in doing,’” Duca said.
By the time an appropriate dog was found — Buck came from Milton — it was 2013. However, Duca said he and Buck, who was then 9 months old, struggled to find a real bond for the first four or five months because they hadn’t bonded before they started their training.
Duca said he was willing to work hard to overcome that challenge. “Being a K-9 handler isn’t just a 9-to-5, it’s a full lifetime commitment because it’s 24-7, 365 for the life of the dog, so we spent a ton of time together,” he said. “Every time he did something good, he got rewarded, whether it was play or treats or something like that.” Duca said he took Buck everywhere. He said he took to joking that his truck was Buck’s truck. Buck slept next to Duca’s bed and became “ besties” with Duca’s girlfriend. “The first year I had him, we were apart for maybe two days. If I went to the gas station to get a cup of coffee, he was in the gas station with me down at Stewart’s, sitting right next to me as I was pouring my coffee,” Duca said. “He went almost everywhere that I went. If he wasn’t in an establishment, he was probably out in the car waiting for me.” While it took a while to develop an emotional bond, Duca said Buck was a professional from the start.
Buck was dual-certified in drug work and in patrol work — which includes tracking, area search, building search, evidence recovery and personal protection. Asked about some of Buck’s best efforts, Duca talked about some of the earliest cases they handled. For instance, shortly after they went into the field in November 2013, they got a call to assist in the search of a woman who had been missing, during a snowstorm, for about 12 hours in western Rutland County. Buck started “air scenting” and led them to a ravine. Duca said he was exhausted after several hours of searching and needed a break but knew a helicopter was on the way. He said he pointed to an area on the map and said to the pilot, “That’s where you need to start your search.” Duca said he watched the helicopter fly in that direction and heard they found the woman right away. “If it hadn’t been for the terrain, we probably would have had our first find on what was practically our first call,” he said. A short time later, Duca was called to the scene of an assault by a group of people on a municipal police officer.
“When we got there, I opened my door, I reached back and I opened (Buck’s) door and someone yelled, ‘Police dog!’ and everyone ran,” he said. Duca said the timely arrival earned a smile for the save from the municipal officer, even though the officer had been hurt. “I could tell you stories all day long. I’ve been getting stories since this happened,” Duca said. A K-9 is not just a dog riding with an officer, Duca said. Buck was a best friend who was attuned to his partner. “Buck was very intuitive. I swear he could read my mind. I would think about something and then he’d do it,” he said. If the Vermont State Police want Duca to handle another K-9, he said he would be ready.
“If it was up to me, absolutely, positively, I’m ready go now,” he said. “I 100 percent want to do that. I want to continue with what Buck taught me. I learned a ton from him.” patrick.mcardle @rutlandherald.com http://www.rutlandherald.com/articles/state-police-lose-k-9-partner/
K9 Kaiser
Partner: Mark Redmond, South Burlington PD
E.O.W. January 25, 2017
Here are some words from Chief Whipple about Kaiser:
"Kaiser served SBPD and the Vermont Law Enforcement community with full heart and soul from July 2008 until his passing this morning. Kaiser’s partner and handler Corporal Mark Redmond was with him at the time of his death. Kaiser had been dealing with some medical complications that ultimately led to his passing. I have comfort in knowing that Kaiser was teamed with a most compassionate and faithful handler who provided him with all affection and recognition that he deserved. I am proud that Kaiser was a member of an elite team of law enforcement professionals here at SBPD who all valued his loyalty, spirit and vigor for the job."
Partner: Mark Redmond, South Burlington PD
E.O.W. January 25, 2017
Here are some words from Chief Whipple about Kaiser:
"Kaiser served SBPD and the Vermont Law Enforcement community with full heart and soul from July 2008 until his passing this morning. Kaiser’s partner and handler Corporal Mark Redmond was with him at the time of his death. Kaiser had been dealing with some medical complications that ultimately led to his passing. I have comfort in knowing that Kaiser was teamed with a most compassionate and faithful handler who provided him with all affection and recognition that he deserved. I am proud that Kaiser was a member of an elite team of law enforcement professionals here at SBPD who all valued his loyalty, spirit and vigor for the job."
K9 Bohdan
Partner: Trooper Hughes, Vermont State Police
It's been a year since Bohdan left us. I'm still in awe of the bond that exists between Troopers, both two-legged and four. I feel honored to be part of the extended VSP family.
It’s difficult to put into words what we experienced as a family in the last few days, but I will give it a shot. A few months ago we were told Kevin’s State Police canine Bohdan had cancer. The vet specialists were hopeful that with treatment, he could recover. There was a 70% probability this could be treated and he would be cured. As Bo (what we affectionately called him) underwent treatment, he seemed to be doing better. About a month ago we noticed he started declining again and realized he was in the unfortunate 30% and this cancer was going to cost him is life.
To give a little background, Bohdan was brought to the US from Slovakia with the sole purpose of becoming a Vermont State Police canine to a first time handler who had aspirations of being a canine handler as his long-term career. Kevin and Bohdan bonded right away. They learned how to work together and how they could depend on each other. They completed the required training together and set off on 71/2 years of partnership night after night. Bohdan had become a constant at the barracks and among other troopers, canine handlers, and dispatchers within VSP and the rest of the state. At the same time, he was becoming a pet to a growing family in is time off.
You would think becoming a police canine was the difficult part, but for Bo it was acclimating to being a pet. Bohdan was a very commanding dog. He walked in the room and people stopped, some stepped back, others hesitated. He was dominant in almost all he did. But as strong as his exterior was, his interior was equally as soft. He wanted to be loved the most, brushed the longest, fed first. And over the years, in order to keep the peace, that is exactly what he got. He didn’t ask for much, but what he asked for…he received.
Bohdan took his police work seriously. Over the last 7 years he’s had many search finds, including tracking a murder suspect to a house he was hiding in after murdering an innocent elderly woman. Although Bo’s favorite place to be was on I-91 waiting for the right car to pass so he could be called out and find the drugs hidden inside. That was always followed by a worthy treat with a good find. He found many drugs on the interstate, including one of his last stops which he hit on a few hundred bags of heroin under the car seat a young child had been sitting in. His efforts and successes seemed endless.
When Bohdan was diagnosed with cancer, the decision was made to retire him from VSP so to allow the focus to be on his treatment and health. This was a hard decision because it’s known that once you take a working dog off the road, his health can quickly decline. When he started getting better, we were hopeful that he would have a few more years to enjoy getting the love and attention from his family. He had also grown a special bond with our youngest daughter, just one year old. To regress a little, when we brought our first daughter home from the hospital, we had thought and planned for a long time how we were going to introduce him. I was nervous that he would feel slighted by the new being that was going to command our attention, but Kevin felt he would learn his place quickly. Since our oldest was 7 when Bohdan joined our family, he had never met a newborn. Well let me tell you, it was a day I will never forget. Kevin held the baby in his arms and leaned down to allow a sniff, which our yellow lab took right away and then walked away in disinterest. Bohdan however, thought this was his new treat and proceeded to open his mouth as to grab her by the head to take her to his den. I don’t think I cried so hard for so many reasons, but he ended up being allowed back in the house after much debate. He learned to stay on his side of the room and the kids on the other. With our last baby, she seemed to have won his heart over and he would let her fall on him, touch him, even hand-feed him from her highchair. We watched him turn his dominance into submission for a little baby. My heart grew bigger for him.
The last few months have been a series of ups and downs and uncertainties as to Bo’s future. It wasn’t until this week where we saw the signs that it was time to let him go. Kevin took a few days off work to spend time with his partner and capture the last few memories he could before he left us. As Thursday approached, tears came and went, we knew it was time, but were sad to say goodbye.
It was an emotional evening, but one that we hope to keep in our hearts always. As the vet came to our house, Bohdan put up one last protective fight by growling and barking, not allowing the vet in the house. It was the first bit of energy we had seen him expend all week, a last glimpse of the powerful being he was. He laid on his bed and received the affection we were giving him. He knew it was time too. With his head in his partner’s hands, he took one last breath and let go.
After he passed, we put his body in the very spot he sat many of nights as a trooper, the canine hold of his police cruiser, to take him on one last night-shift ride. We were met by two sergeants who had overseen Kevin and Bohdan’s shifts over the last 7 years. They came to follow him on his final ride. We drove down to the Barracks to take one last loop around the building and what we saw was amazing. A dozen police cruisers, with their blue lights on, parked on both sides of the driveway going into the Barracks parking lot with Troopers standing outside the front of their cars. As we drove the cruiser carrying Bohdan’s body into the lot, the Trooper simultaneously lifted their hands and saluted to honor their fallen friend. Witnessing such comradery was breathtaking and overwhelming all at the same time. As we made Bodhan’s final loop around the building, the Troopers stayed in formation, still saluting. As we neared the exit back onto the road to continue our journey, the Troopers followed in line to escort Bohdan on this ride. Looking in the rear view mirror, the headlights of all the cruisers could be seen in single line formation, sending their fellow Trooper on his final journey. As we turned off the highway, now only two miles from leaving our Bo, we noticed a local police officer stopping traffic momentarily to allow the formation of cruisers to stay together. As I saw out of the corner of my eye, he too saluted Bohdan as a final gesture of respect for a fallen officer. When we entered the facility, we knew we had to say our final goodbye. As Kevin and our oldest son carried Bohdan’s body into the building, the entrance was again flanked by a dozen troopers saluting Bohdan as he completed his journey to his final resting place.
This tribute was nothing short of beautiful. It’s so easy to say that Bohdan was just a dog, but this show of respect and honor told me different. These men saw Bohdan as a fellow Trooper, as a member of the team, as part of their family too. This gesture of gratitude for the sacrifice and commitment Bohdan made to the VSP was one of the most heartfelt acknowledgements I’ve been witness to.
Words don’t do justice the appreciation we have for all the kind words, acknowledgements, and condolences on the passing of our pup and Kevin’s partner. Thank you for your kindness. He will be missed and never forgotten. He contributed to an incredible program within the state of Vermont and left a legacy. He also left an imprint in his partner’s heart that will never be replaced.
Partner: Trooper Hughes, Vermont State Police
It's been a year since Bohdan left us. I'm still in awe of the bond that exists between Troopers, both two-legged and four. I feel honored to be part of the extended VSP family.
It’s difficult to put into words what we experienced as a family in the last few days, but I will give it a shot. A few months ago we were told Kevin’s State Police canine Bohdan had cancer. The vet specialists were hopeful that with treatment, he could recover. There was a 70% probability this could be treated and he would be cured. As Bo (what we affectionately called him) underwent treatment, he seemed to be doing better. About a month ago we noticed he started declining again and realized he was in the unfortunate 30% and this cancer was going to cost him is life.
To give a little background, Bohdan was brought to the US from Slovakia with the sole purpose of becoming a Vermont State Police canine to a first time handler who had aspirations of being a canine handler as his long-term career. Kevin and Bohdan bonded right away. They learned how to work together and how they could depend on each other. They completed the required training together and set off on 71/2 years of partnership night after night. Bohdan had become a constant at the barracks and among other troopers, canine handlers, and dispatchers within VSP and the rest of the state. At the same time, he was becoming a pet to a growing family in is time off.
You would think becoming a police canine was the difficult part, but for Bo it was acclimating to being a pet. Bohdan was a very commanding dog. He walked in the room and people stopped, some stepped back, others hesitated. He was dominant in almost all he did. But as strong as his exterior was, his interior was equally as soft. He wanted to be loved the most, brushed the longest, fed first. And over the years, in order to keep the peace, that is exactly what he got. He didn’t ask for much, but what he asked for…he received.
Bohdan took his police work seriously. Over the last 7 years he’s had many search finds, including tracking a murder suspect to a house he was hiding in after murdering an innocent elderly woman. Although Bo’s favorite place to be was on I-91 waiting for the right car to pass so he could be called out and find the drugs hidden inside. That was always followed by a worthy treat with a good find. He found many drugs on the interstate, including one of his last stops which he hit on a few hundred bags of heroin under the car seat a young child had been sitting in. His efforts and successes seemed endless.
When Bohdan was diagnosed with cancer, the decision was made to retire him from VSP so to allow the focus to be on his treatment and health. This was a hard decision because it’s known that once you take a working dog off the road, his health can quickly decline. When he started getting better, we were hopeful that he would have a few more years to enjoy getting the love and attention from his family. He had also grown a special bond with our youngest daughter, just one year old. To regress a little, when we brought our first daughter home from the hospital, we had thought and planned for a long time how we were going to introduce him. I was nervous that he would feel slighted by the new being that was going to command our attention, but Kevin felt he would learn his place quickly. Since our oldest was 7 when Bohdan joined our family, he had never met a newborn. Well let me tell you, it was a day I will never forget. Kevin held the baby in his arms and leaned down to allow a sniff, which our yellow lab took right away and then walked away in disinterest. Bohdan however, thought this was his new treat and proceeded to open his mouth as to grab her by the head to take her to his den. I don’t think I cried so hard for so many reasons, but he ended up being allowed back in the house after much debate. He learned to stay on his side of the room and the kids on the other. With our last baby, she seemed to have won his heart over and he would let her fall on him, touch him, even hand-feed him from her highchair. We watched him turn his dominance into submission for a little baby. My heart grew bigger for him.
The last few months have been a series of ups and downs and uncertainties as to Bo’s future. It wasn’t until this week where we saw the signs that it was time to let him go. Kevin took a few days off work to spend time with his partner and capture the last few memories he could before he left us. As Thursday approached, tears came and went, we knew it was time, but were sad to say goodbye.
It was an emotional evening, but one that we hope to keep in our hearts always. As the vet came to our house, Bohdan put up one last protective fight by growling and barking, not allowing the vet in the house. It was the first bit of energy we had seen him expend all week, a last glimpse of the powerful being he was. He laid on his bed and received the affection we were giving him. He knew it was time too. With his head in his partner’s hands, he took one last breath and let go.
After he passed, we put his body in the very spot he sat many of nights as a trooper, the canine hold of his police cruiser, to take him on one last night-shift ride. We were met by two sergeants who had overseen Kevin and Bohdan’s shifts over the last 7 years. They came to follow him on his final ride. We drove down to the Barracks to take one last loop around the building and what we saw was amazing. A dozen police cruisers, with their blue lights on, parked on both sides of the driveway going into the Barracks parking lot with Troopers standing outside the front of their cars. As we drove the cruiser carrying Bohdan’s body into the lot, the Trooper simultaneously lifted their hands and saluted to honor their fallen friend. Witnessing such comradery was breathtaking and overwhelming all at the same time. As we made Bodhan’s final loop around the building, the Troopers stayed in formation, still saluting. As we neared the exit back onto the road to continue our journey, the Troopers followed in line to escort Bohdan on this ride. Looking in the rear view mirror, the headlights of all the cruisers could be seen in single line formation, sending their fellow Trooper on his final journey. As we turned off the highway, now only two miles from leaving our Bo, we noticed a local police officer stopping traffic momentarily to allow the formation of cruisers to stay together. As I saw out of the corner of my eye, he too saluted Bohdan as a final gesture of respect for a fallen officer. When we entered the facility, we knew we had to say our final goodbye. As Kevin and our oldest son carried Bohdan’s body into the building, the entrance was again flanked by a dozen troopers saluting Bohdan as he completed his journey to his final resting place.
This tribute was nothing short of beautiful. It’s so easy to say that Bohdan was just a dog, but this show of respect and honor told me different. These men saw Bohdan as a fellow Trooper, as a member of the team, as part of their family too. This gesture of gratitude for the sacrifice and commitment Bohdan made to the VSP was one of the most heartfelt acknowledgements I’ve been witness to.
Words don’t do justice the appreciation we have for all the kind words, acknowledgements, and condolences on the passing of our pup and Kevin’s partner. Thank you for your kindness. He will be missed and never forgotten. He contributed to an incredible program within the state of Vermont and left a legacy. He also left an imprint in his partner’s heart that will never be replaced.
K9 Scooby
Partner: Sgt. Christopher Buckley
(09/28/1999 to 01/29/2010)
Vermont State Police – August 2000 to December 2008
K-9 Scooby came to the Buckley Family in July 2000 from the Northeast German Shepherd dog rescue in Rindge, NH. K-9 Scooby had been picked to join the ranks of the Vermont State Police K-9 program. K-9 Scooby served with the Vermont State Police K-9 corps from August 1, 2000 to December 7, 2008.
From the start, all who encountered K-9 Scooby knew that he had a unique personality which matched his celebrity name. In August 2000, K-9 Scooby began his training at the Vermont Police Academy in Pittsford, VT. K-9 Scooby completed his 16 weeks of Patrol Training, gained his certification and hit the road running. Shortly after gaining his Patrol certification, K-9 Scooby attended and completed the 6 week Narcotic Detection
Training School earning this certification. K-9 Scooby also earned NESPAC certification in Patrol and Drug Detection.
During K-9 Scooby’s career, he made 26 tracking finds and completed more than one hundred drug searches. K-9 Scooby was deployed more than 300 times during his career. One of K-9 Scooby’s most notable tracks involved the track and find of a subject who had violently assaulted his girlfriend. The subject also had an arrest warrant for another assault. Just prior to the arrival of the State Police, the subject fled into a wooded area and into a swamp down the road from the trailer park where the incident occurred. K-9 Scooby subsequently located the subject hiding in the swamp. Upon making the find, K-9 Scooby stood on the subject’s chest in the middle of the swamp. The subject surrendered without incident. K-9 Scooby made many drug finds during his career. K-9 Scooby’s most notable drug find was 110 pounds marijuana hidden in a false wall inside of the trailer of a tractor trailer combination. K-9 Scooby maintained a 98% proficiency rating for his detection work. K-9 Scooby also assisted in the recovery of in excess of $200,000 in US currency.
K-9 Scooby was also well known for his many visits into Elementary Schools and Pre-schools around Chittenden and Windham Counties. Many children were drawn to K-9 Scooby because of his unique personality and his ability to make them laugh. He will forever be remembered for his famous reward when he completed a school visit, made a great tracking find or located narcotics. K-9 Scooby received “a cheeseburger, no pickles, no onions” for great work.
K-9 Scooby was awarded the “2006 Tracking Team of the Year” by the Vermont Police Canine Association. K-9 Scooby also participated in several “Iron Dog” Competitions and placed first in the 2001 competition.
Partner: Sgt. Christopher Buckley
(09/28/1999 to 01/29/2010)
Vermont State Police – August 2000 to December 2008
K-9 Scooby came to the Buckley Family in July 2000 from the Northeast German Shepherd dog rescue in Rindge, NH. K-9 Scooby had been picked to join the ranks of the Vermont State Police K-9 program. K-9 Scooby served with the Vermont State Police K-9 corps from August 1, 2000 to December 7, 2008.
From the start, all who encountered K-9 Scooby knew that he had a unique personality which matched his celebrity name. In August 2000, K-9 Scooby began his training at the Vermont Police Academy in Pittsford, VT. K-9 Scooby completed his 16 weeks of Patrol Training, gained his certification and hit the road running. Shortly after gaining his Patrol certification, K-9 Scooby attended and completed the 6 week Narcotic Detection
Training School earning this certification. K-9 Scooby also earned NESPAC certification in Patrol and Drug Detection.
During K-9 Scooby’s career, he made 26 tracking finds and completed more than one hundred drug searches. K-9 Scooby was deployed more than 300 times during his career. One of K-9 Scooby’s most notable tracks involved the track and find of a subject who had violently assaulted his girlfriend. The subject also had an arrest warrant for another assault. Just prior to the arrival of the State Police, the subject fled into a wooded area and into a swamp down the road from the trailer park where the incident occurred. K-9 Scooby subsequently located the subject hiding in the swamp. Upon making the find, K-9 Scooby stood on the subject’s chest in the middle of the swamp. The subject surrendered without incident. K-9 Scooby made many drug finds during his career. K-9 Scooby’s most notable drug find was 110 pounds marijuana hidden in a false wall inside of the trailer of a tractor trailer combination. K-9 Scooby maintained a 98% proficiency rating for his detection work. K-9 Scooby also assisted in the recovery of in excess of $200,000 in US currency.
K-9 Scooby was also well known for his many visits into Elementary Schools and Pre-schools around Chittenden and Windham Counties. Many children were drawn to K-9 Scooby because of his unique personality and his ability to make them laugh. He will forever be remembered for his famous reward when he completed a school visit, made a great tracking find or located narcotics. K-9 Scooby received “a cheeseburger, no pickles, no onions” for great work.
K-9 Scooby was awarded the “2006 Tracking Team of the Year” by the Vermont Police Canine Association. K-9 Scooby also participated in several “Iron Dog” Competitions and placed first in the 2001 competition.
K9 Xerxes
Partner: Cpl. Ed Hunter Vermont State Police
February 3, 2006
Xerxes was 14 years old when he died. Xerxes came to the Hunter family as a young puppy. He quickly became a member of the family, a loyal friend, and a partner eager to always go to work even up to the final days before his passing.
During his career Xerxes had a great record of successful tracks. Ed and Xerxes graduated from Basic Patrol Dog School on Nov 1, 1996. Basic Narcotics Detection School just 1 year later on Nov 21, 1997, and the Advanced Tracking School on May 21, 1999.
Recognition:
Partner: Cpl. Ed Hunter Vermont State Police
February 3, 2006
Xerxes was 14 years old when he died. Xerxes came to the Hunter family as a young puppy. He quickly became a member of the family, a loyal friend, and a partner eager to always go to work even up to the final days before his passing.
During his career Xerxes had a great record of successful tracks. Ed and Xerxes graduated from Basic Patrol Dog School on Nov 1, 1996. Basic Narcotics Detection School just 1 year later on Nov 21, 1997, and the Advanced Tracking School on May 21, 1999.
Recognition:
- Drug Dog of the Year Award – 1999, by VPCA
- Canine and Handler of the Year Award – 2000, 2002, by the VPCA.
- Meritorious Service Award – Vermont State Police.
- Professional Dog of the Year – 2003, by the VT Veterinary Medical Association.
K9 Kilo
Partner: Ptl. David Dewey, Colchester Police Department
When I was 8, I knew that I wanted a K-9. That dream was realized in 1998 at Winooski PD when K-9 Kilo was delivered to our front doorstep, a donated dog whose mission in life was going to be to save me from bad guys (and myself), track down bad guys, bite bad guys, and find bad guys’ drugs. He was a little 6 week old pup, with big feet, and huge ears. Winooski businesses provided the funds to begin.
Monday night Kilo died during surgery from complications of a really bad infection. My friend (Dr. Howard) and his staff did all that they could. I was with him. I will miss him.
Kilo has been my best friend, my partner, our family member, a co-worker, and an all around great dog. He served me (us) well up to his last week. He helped me through some rough times, tracked down some really bad dudes, found some drugs, helped the Po-Po snag some drug money, located a few runaways, and saved my ass more times than I can count.
Kilo was the star of the show at dozens of demos at schools, colleges, Boy Scout meetings, Special Olympic events, daycares, public events and camps, and hundreds of people had the opportunity to see him work, see him bite one our many chew toys (you know who you are, especially Akerlind, Ziter, and Lamoureux)), scratch some cars (thanks Fish and Soons), find some drugs, and wag his huge tail and carry the bite sleeve around like a little princess, eventually jumping in the cruiser with the bite sleeve that doesn’t fit through the window.
Many of you had the opportunity to feed him, of course just dog food (Diana, Pat, Gail, Squaw), and if you didn’t he would stalk you until you caved in (Barton, Chief). Sometimes he would come home fat, but always happy.
Frisbee throwing will never be the same. I will probably continue to find little pieces of frisbee (and long black dog fur) for many years to come, at home and at Colchester PD.
Thank you all for your help during these past years. Your help, intentional or not, helped make Kilo the dog that he was and made the K-9 program here what it has become.
I’ll never forget the little puppy squeals when he was excited, the chasing the flashlight, the shredding of boxes, the eerie sound of him upon entry into a building, and the going nuts on the floor for no apparent reason except that he still heard McCullagh’s voice in his head. My children will have to learn to clean up after dinner a little better without Kilo around.
We will all miss him.
Dave
Partner: Ptl. David Dewey, Colchester Police Department
When I was 8, I knew that I wanted a K-9. That dream was realized in 1998 at Winooski PD when K-9 Kilo was delivered to our front doorstep, a donated dog whose mission in life was going to be to save me from bad guys (and myself), track down bad guys, bite bad guys, and find bad guys’ drugs. He was a little 6 week old pup, with big feet, and huge ears. Winooski businesses provided the funds to begin.
Monday night Kilo died during surgery from complications of a really bad infection. My friend (Dr. Howard) and his staff did all that they could. I was with him. I will miss him.
Kilo has been my best friend, my partner, our family member, a co-worker, and an all around great dog. He served me (us) well up to his last week. He helped me through some rough times, tracked down some really bad dudes, found some drugs, helped the Po-Po snag some drug money, located a few runaways, and saved my ass more times than I can count.
Kilo was the star of the show at dozens of demos at schools, colleges, Boy Scout meetings, Special Olympic events, daycares, public events and camps, and hundreds of people had the opportunity to see him work, see him bite one our many chew toys (you know who you are, especially Akerlind, Ziter, and Lamoureux)), scratch some cars (thanks Fish and Soons), find some drugs, and wag his huge tail and carry the bite sleeve around like a little princess, eventually jumping in the cruiser with the bite sleeve that doesn’t fit through the window.
Many of you had the opportunity to feed him, of course just dog food (Diana, Pat, Gail, Squaw), and if you didn’t he would stalk you until you caved in (Barton, Chief). Sometimes he would come home fat, but always happy.
Frisbee throwing will never be the same. I will probably continue to find little pieces of frisbee (and long black dog fur) for many years to come, at home and at Colchester PD.
Thank you all for your help during these past years. Your help, intentional or not, helped make Kilo the dog that he was and made the K-9 program here what it has become.
I’ll never forget the little puppy squeals when he was excited, the chasing the flashlight, the shredding of boxes, the eerie sound of him upon entry into a building, and the going nuts on the floor for no apparent reason except that he still heard McCullagh’s voice in his head. My children will have to learn to clean up after dinner a little better without Kilo around.
We will all miss him.
Dave
K9 Roca
Partner: Corporal Robert Sylvia
Chittenden County Sheriff’s Office
As many of you know Roca had been diagnosed with Addison’s Disease earlier this year. Roca died of complications from that disease early Saturday morning. Fortunately for her, she went to sleep and never woke up.
Roca was the Chittenden County Sheriff’s Office first and only K-9. Thanks to community donations, sponsors, the DEA, many of you, and the Sheriff I was able to get the K-9 program up and running in a relatively short period of time. I got Roca in May of 2003 at only 8 weeks old. She rode home with me in my cruiser on the front seat sitting atop a towel looking out the window. I remember the first time I pulled up in a parking lot with my K-9 marked cruiser with tinted windows. The labels said “K-9” and most were expecting to see the Shepherd jump out. Instead, out comes a butterball looking 9 week old lab puppy. I remember a group of people laughing at the sight of her after jumping out of that cruiser.
Around the summer of 2003 Roca and I began drug training with Sgt. Gary Genova and were on our way to becoming a team. I thank him for the tremendous amount of guidance and expertise to this day. If it was not for Gary taking the time out of his regular work schedule to help me get Roca trained there would not have been a K-9 program. After certification Roca and I spent many days and nights together. Most of her time in the cruiser was spent with Roca standing with her two front paws on the armrest between the two front seats with her head on my right shoulder.
Roca loved to work and loved to play. Show her a ball, stick, frisbee, rock, whatever, and it was game on. As long as you wanted to throw it…Roca would go get it. Her drive was one of the many aspects that made her such a great drug dog. The fact that she didn’t know the difference between play at work and play at home made her a great pet. To her it was all play.
In Roca’s just over two years of service she helped seize over $250,000 in currency, hundreds of pounds of marijuana, and pounds of other drugs. Roca had assisted every police agency in this county and several federal ones too. Roca visited many schools during her two years and loved the kids.
Many of you had the opportunity to meet, play, train, work, and sometimes care for Roca. All of you welcomed Roca any time with open arms. For that I say thank you. For those of you that snuck her treats and “people food” while I wasn’t looking…I knew all along. She deserved all those treats and then some!
There are also those of you that Roca took a special liking to. You all know who you are and I cannot thank you enough for loving Roca as much as I did. Sadly, Roca will not be visiting anymore and I threw her the frisbee for the last time on Thursday during our last training together. Roca will be coming home with me soon.
Although there will be no medals, no color guards, or uniforms at a service, please remember Roca as a hero as you would any other partner. She was mine.
My family and I will miss her dearly. I have attached a few photos of my hero.
Rob
Corporal Robert Sylvia
K-9 Officer
Chittenden County Sheriff’s Office
Partner: Corporal Robert Sylvia
Chittenden County Sheriff’s Office
As many of you know Roca had been diagnosed with Addison’s Disease earlier this year. Roca died of complications from that disease early Saturday morning. Fortunately for her, she went to sleep and never woke up.
Roca was the Chittenden County Sheriff’s Office first and only K-9. Thanks to community donations, sponsors, the DEA, many of you, and the Sheriff I was able to get the K-9 program up and running in a relatively short period of time. I got Roca in May of 2003 at only 8 weeks old. She rode home with me in my cruiser on the front seat sitting atop a towel looking out the window. I remember the first time I pulled up in a parking lot with my K-9 marked cruiser with tinted windows. The labels said “K-9” and most were expecting to see the Shepherd jump out. Instead, out comes a butterball looking 9 week old lab puppy. I remember a group of people laughing at the sight of her after jumping out of that cruiser.
Around the summer of 2003 Roca and I began drug training with Sgt. Gary Genova and were on our way to becoming a team. I thank him for the tremendous amount of guidance and expertise to this day. If it was not for Gary taking the time out of his regular work schedule to help me get Roca trained there would not have been a K-9 program. After certification Roca and I spent many days and nights together. Most of her time in the cruiser was spent with Roca standing with her two front paws on the armrest between the two front seats with her head on my right shoulder.
Roca loved to work and loved to play. Show her a ball, stick, frisbee, rock, whatever, and it was game on. As long as you wanted to throw it…Roca would go get it. Her drive was one of the many aspects that made her such a great drug dog. The fact that she didn’t know the difference between play at work and play at home made her a great pet. To her it was all play.
In Roca’s just over two years of service she helped seize over $250,000 in currency, hundreds of pounds of marijuana, and pounds of other drugs. Roca had assisted every police agency in this county and several federal ones too. Roca visited many schools during her two years and loved the kids.
Many of you had the opportunity to meet, play, train, work, and sometimes care for Roca. All of you welcomed Roca any time with open arms. For that I say thank you. For those of you that snuck her treats and “people food” while I wasn’t looking…I knew all along. She deserved all those treats and then some!
There are also those of you that Roca took a special liking to. You all know who you are and I cannot thank you enough for loving Roca as much as I did. Sadly, Roca will not be visiting anymore and I threw her the frisbee for the last time on Thursday during our last training together. Roca will be coming home with me soon.
Although there will be no medals, no color guards, or uniforms at a service, please remember Roca as a hero as you would any other partner. She was mine.
My family and I will miss her dearly. I have attached a few photos of my hero.
Rob
Corporal Robert Sylvia
K-9 Officer
Chittenden County Sheriff’s Office