by BECKY GOFF
Little Apple Post
RILEY COUNTY- Effective December 13th, RCPD K9 Axel has retired after seven years serving the department.
In March 2015, the now 10-year-old, Axel began working alongside former RCPD Officer Andrew Toolin.
Officer Paul Terpstra became Axel’s handler in May 2020 and they worked side-by-side until Axel’s retirement.
“Axel has been an extremely driven and successful canine in his almost eight-year career with the RCPD,” said Terpstra. “He’s faithful and full of energy.”
According to RCPD, Axel is responsible for the seizure of more than 130 pounds of illegal drugs worth more than $75,000 and 30 illegal firearms or weapons, although these numbers are presumed to be much higher as Axel has assisted in many out-of-jurisdiction operations that have not been recorded.
Axel is the fourth K9 to retire from RCPD following Dino (2003 – 2014), Rocket (2003 – 2010), and Kato (2010 – 2017). Officer Terpstra will keep Axel during his retirement.
“I’m excited to give him a restful and comfortable home in his well-deserved retirement,” added Terpstra.