DARIEN, CT — After 10 years of service to the community, the Darien Police Department announced that K9 Argo, a German Shepherd, has retired.
"K9 Argo served alongside his handler, Officer Amanda Hinkley, with professionalism, courage, and an unwavering commitment to public safety," police said in an announcement.
"Throughout his career, Argo played an important role in keeping our community safe and supporting officers in the field," the department added. "We thank K9 Argo and Officer Hinkley for their dedication and service to the Town of Darien and wish Argo a happy retirement filled with plenty of rest, treats, and time with family. Thank you, Argo, for your service and sacrifice. Enjoy retirement — you’ve earned it."
Police posted the final radio transmission of Argo signing off into retirement. Listen here.
Hinkley posted to Instagram thanking Argo for his years of service and partnership.
"Together, we faced challenges that required trust, determination, and unwavering commitment. Through it all, you were always there, ready to work, eager to serve, and dependable in every situation," Hinkley wrote.
"A K9 partner is much more than a working dog. You became a constant presence in my life, sharing both the demanding days and the quiet moments in between," Hinkley continued. "The bond we built was the result of countless hours spent together training, working, and playing. It is a partnership that cannot be fully described to those who have never experienced it."
Argo will now live with Hinkley in retirement.
"Though your working days are over, your role in my life will never end. From this day forward, you will no longer be my K9 partner, you will simply be family. It has been the greatest honor of my career to serve alongside you," Hinkley added. "Enjoy your well-earned retirement. You have earned every moment of rest, every comfortable bed, and every carefree day ahead. I love you, partner. Thank you for everything. Job well done."
The DPD this week also introduced K9 Ranger, who has worked over the past six months with Officer Neil Nair to prepare for the role of top dog at the department.
"Through extensive training and mentorship, Ofc. Nair and K9 Ranger are ready to continue the tradition of service and help keep the Darien community safe," police said.
According to the Darien police website, the K9 unit was established in 2009 with the hiring of K9 Zulu as a full-time addition to the patrol division. Zulu, a German Shepherd, retired in 2016.
That same year, the department brought in Argo, and K9 Grizzly, a chocolate Lab who died in 2017. Kenny joined the force in 2017 and retired in 2022.
Ranger, also a German Shepherd, is trained in
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