MANSFIELD — His eyes darted around the room, carefully watching everyone. His ears perked up as he listened to the voices. He stayed close to his partner.
K-9 Richy retired from the Mansfield Police Department on Dec. 30 after nearly eight years of service.
But the black German Shepherd, born in 2013, clearly looked like he was back on the job Tuesday night.
“When he comes into the city, he feels like he is working again,” said Mansfield police officer Denny Kiner, his handler and partner since the canine joined the department in 2016.
K-9 Richy and Kiner were in council chambers on Tuesday evening to be honored by local lawmakers for his years of service to city residents.
According to a resolution council unanimously approved, K-9 Richy “has had hundreds of drug seizures that led to successful convictions of those suspects.
“He has been deployed for multiple incidents, ranging from violent criminals, trackings, search warrants, school drug searches, pursuits, missing people, article searches, public demonstrations and classroom visits,” according to the resolution.
Kiner spoke on behalf of he and his furry partner, who seemed more interested in sniffing a bag of treats given to him by 2nd Ward Councilwoman Cheryl Meier.
“I’d like to thank you guys for the opportunity,” Kiner said. “This (K-9) position has meant the world to me.”
Police Chief Keith Porch thanked Kiner for his dedication to the K-9 unit.
“Obviously, we’re here to honor your partner (but) you have done a phenomenal job with the dog. I know there have been many cases with which you have assisted patrol officers with their daily duties and you know how important these dogs are to the department,” Porch said.
The German Shepherd, born in the Czech Republic, joined the MPD on July 16, 2016. He was certified with Kiner on Dec. 18, 2016, and has been on the road ever since.
A dual-purpose patrol and drug detection dog, K-9 Richy’s primary language is German.
Porch reminded council members the department’s K-9 program is fully funded by donations, other than paying for the officers and preparing a vehicle for the dogs.
“When the dogs come to us, they’re right around $10,000 before they start day one. By the time that we get the dogs to this point, they’re almost probably a little over $20,000 in worth of training and everything that they’ve gone through,” the chief said.
Porch said K-9 Richy had earned his retirement, which he will spend with the Kiner family.
“It’s always been (the belief) of past administrations, and definitely mine as chief, that it’s important we give the dogs some rest and retirement.
“Typically, five to seven years is the lifespan of a working canine. And we want to make sure that they’re home and get to relax with the family and have some retirement years,” the chief said.
“I know they take good care of him and the family loves him. So I wish you the very best with your, well, your home pet,” Porch said.
At-large Councilwoman Stephanie Zader said one of her favorite things to do as an elected official is watch the K-9 units train.
“It’s interesting to see the difference in the dogs,” Zader said.
“I spent many nights where I have stopped and seen (Kiner and K-9 Richy) out at night working third shift. We just talked about the city and your time spent here.
“I want to thank you for all that you’ve done and for taking good care of your dog while he was your partner,” she said.
At-large Councilman David Falquette agreed with Zader.
“We’re so appreciative and very supportive that we have this (K-9) program,” he said.
6th Ward Councilwoman Deborah Mount also offered praise.
“Thank you very much both to Richy and to you for all the work you have done with the K-9 unit and all that he’s done on patrol,” she said.
5th Ward Councilman Aurelio Diaz said he had initially underestimated the world of K-9 officers before he witnessed the training efforts.
“One thing that really stands out is just the bond that’s so close and and evident. I’m watching you and I know it’s so emotional for you.
“But they’re on the front lines. They’re just like a human officer. They’re out there risking their lives to help other people.
“And so, I commend you on your retirement. Eat your dog bones and T-bone and enjoy it,” Diaz said.
