After many years of loyal crime-fighting service, one of British Columbia’s hardest-working – and cuddliest – members of the public service has retired.
The Police Service Dog named Whiskey has assisted the RCMP and the Civil Forfeiture Office (CFO) in taking millions of dollars of drugs and drug money off Okanagan streets. He’s also been a fixture in local hospitals, bringing good wishes and stuffed toys to sick kids.
His excellent service to the Province over the last eight years has resulted in in the seizure of over $2.5 million worth of drugs, along with cash seizures. Some of these ill-gotten proceeds of crime have been put back into B.C. communities through the Civil Forfeiture grant program.
Police Service Dogs are highly trained to assist law enforcement with a multitude of duties. Their duties include – but are not limited to – locating lost persons, tracking criminals, searching for narcotics and explosives, search and rescue missions, and community relations.
In 2007, Whiskey joined the RCMP and attended the Police Dog Training Centre in Alberta. After his lengthy training, Whiskey graduated with honors, making him a truly exceptional pup.
Now that Whiskey has retired, he’ll continue to live with his handler. He’ll enjoy a well-deserved break from his days as a crime fighter and continue his community work at local hospitals.
Quotes:
Christy Clark, Premier of British Columbia and MLA for Westside-Kelowna –
“Police Service Dogs have a proud history in Canadian police work. Whiskey is no exception, having not only assisted in taking significant amounts of drug money off the streets, but heading to local hospitals in his spare time, to make sick kids smile. Whiskey is every man's, woman's and child’s best friend. We thank him for his eight years of loyal service in Kamloops, Kelowna and throughout the Okanagan.”
Mike Morris, Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General –
“Police Service Dogs are truly exceptional creatures and Whiskey is a fine example of their incredible work ethic and strong character. Whiskey and his canine colleagues are an asset to our ongoing fight to keep our streets safe from drugs and take away the ill-gotten gains of crime and put them back into our communities.”
For photos, follow this link: https://www.flickr.com/gp/bcgovphotos/68A6h7