K9 Who Took Bullet for Handler Retires from Indiana State Police After 8-Year Career
"We wish you a happy retirement filled with rest, belly rubs and lots of treats,” a dispatcher for the Indiana State Police told K9 Apache
An Indiana State Police dog has earned his retirement from the force.
On Tuesday, Oct. 8, the Indiana State Police Indianapolis District shared a sweet message via Facebook, honoring the department’s beloved German shepherd, titled “K9 Apaches Retires.”
“Earlier today, in a fun ceremony with his favorite people, Indiana State Police K9 Apache retired from duty. He will enjoy retirement as a family pet with his lifelong partner Trooper Walter Butt,” the caption began.
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The tribute went on to share how Apache “took a bullet to the neck during an officer involved shooting” in 2017, and was back in the line of duty just three weeks later after making a full recovery.
A three-minute video accompanied the social media message, thanking Apache for his eight years of service.
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As the clip began, Apache could be seen pacing back and forth in the back seat of a patrol car as Butt sat in the driver’s seat in full police gear, using his radio to speak to a dispatcher.
The trooper informed the dispatcher that it was Apache’s “final shift.”
The video then cuts to body cam footage, showing the canine at home with Butt, who playfully asked if he was “ready to go to work?”
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An excited Apache spun around several times before making his way to the front door, running outside and hopping into their Indiana State Police car.
From there, several photos showed Apache and Butt on duty throughout the years. As the slideshow went on, the dispatcher highlighted the duo’s accomplishments.
“After eight-and-a-half years of dedicated service, K9 Apache is retiring and signing off for his final shift. K9 Apache has made a significant impact in our communities by seizing over 950 pounds of illegal narcotics. He’s been instrumental in seizing over $1.6 million in drug money,” the dispatcher continued as photos of Apache with drug paraphernalia played across the screen.
His career highlights also included 77 criminal apprehensions, and more than 500 criminal narcotics arrests.
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However, his most important accolade would likely be saving his handler’s life, which earned him an American Kennel Club Paw of Courage award.
“He protected his handler when it mattered most, even by taking a bullet to save his life,” the dispatcher said.
The moment happened as K9 Apache chased a suspect. After being shot, the dog ran off, but was found and treated the next morning.
“You have always answered the call, no matter the hour to assist officers in our district and beyond,” the video continued. “Thank you, K9 Apache, for your service and love for the job you have done to protect and serve.”
“K9 Apache, you have met and exceeded every expectation. All of us, to you, we wish you a happy retirement filled with rest, belly rubs and lots of treats,” the dispatcher concluded.
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