Vote — approved

Item Text

34. TRANSFER OF OWNERSHIP OF RETIRING K-9 – RICO Approve the transfer of ownership of retiring K-9, Rico, #K147, to Sergeant Alberto Armendariz, #S1185. Rico is an eight-year-old dual purpose Belgian Malinois certified in explosives and patrol. Rico has been working alongside of Sergeant Armendariz since 2017 as his original handler. During Rico’s career he has assisted with hundreds of sweeps prior to Arizona Diamondbacks home games and events at Chase Field and for the Maricopa County Superior Courts, always keeping everyone safe. Rico also arrested/apprehended countless number of individuals while working with MCSO’s SWAT Division and with the Fugitives Apprehension Unit. Rico’s change in behavior was first observed in September of 2023. As symptoms gradually began to worsen, he was seen by a Veterinarian which referred Rico to a specialist based on observations. Dr. Jones’s, veterinarian medical specialist, provided diagnosis in March 2024 in which was permanent and would only worsen with continued work. Over the last 9 months Rico’s ability to cool himself off and excessive panting due to his medical condition could lead to injury or worse. For the health and safety of Rico, his handler Armendariz and the public, we ask for Rico to be retired. Sergeant Armendariz has created a strong bond with Rico over the years as his handler/partner and will accept full care and financial responsibility for Rico upon adoption and will be asked to sign the Canine Release and Indemnification. THIS ITEM REQUIRES A UNANIMOUS VOTE OF THE BOARD (C-50-25-006-X-00)