K9 Kira’s retirement from the Sheriff’s Office

GHENT, N.Y. – A long-time K9 officer has earned her keep after serving the citizens of Columbia County for 10 years.

Columbia County Sheriff David Bartlett announced K9 Kira’s retirement from the Sheriff’s Office last month. In an effort to recognize and reward Kira for her service, the Criminal Justice Club at C-GCC issued her a commendation, signed by the club’s President Dominick Manoli ’20 of Acra, Vice President Hailey Beaumont ’20 of Hudson, as well as club co-advisors Bill DeLuca, professor of Criminal Justice, and Frankie Beaver-Timmons, associate professor of Criminal Justice and Sociology.

C-GCC President Carlee Drummer wrote a personal note to Kira and her family to accompany the commendation, which was presented to her with a basket of treats from The Berkshire Dog, an all-natural dog-treat company based in Pittsfield, Mass.

“You certainly will be missed on the force,” wrote Drummer, “but in the words of British author Jonathan Swift, ‘every dog must have his day.’”

K9 Kira is a female German Shepherd from East Slovakia who was acquired through a grant from the New York State Department of Homeland Security in 2010. Since joining the Sheriff’s Office, Kira has received specialized training in explosives detection, patrol, and tracking — serving with her handler and partner Deputy Travis VanAlstyne.

She will enjoy her retirement with her family in Ghent.

Author: Harlem Valley News