GASTON COUNTY, N.C.,None — A 10-year-old Dutch Shepherd who has served as a K-9 unit in the Gaston County Police Department since May 2002 is retiring.
K-9 Bear was certified as a patrol and narcotic detection police service dog through the American Police Canine Association, the department said.
During his career, Bear was credited with the recovery of an estimated $1.5 million in U.S. currency. While working for the Gaston County Police Department, Bear was responsible for narcotic seizures with an estimated street value totaling approximately $775,000. Bear also tracked and located more than 50 subjects during his career, the department said.
Bear assisted numerous law enforcement agencies during his career and received commendations from the Kings Mountain Police Department, the Mount Holly Police Department and the North Carolina Probation and Parole.
Bear worked with three K-9 handlers during his time with the Gaston County Police Department. He finished his career under the direction of Officer Randy Drennan and will spend his retirement in his care, the department said.