ROAYL OAK, Mich. (WXYZ) — The Royal Oak Police Department has announced that one of its K9s, Ryker, is retiring after seven years of service with the city. Now, Conan, a Belgian Malinois and German Shepherd mix, will replace Ryker.
According to the city, Ryker joined the department in 2012 with his handler, Officr Richard Chipman. Chipman and Ryker were a productive team, and during their first night, they tracked a suspect wanted for questioning for a homicide out of Detroit.
During his service, Ryker tracked and apprehended many suspects. Highlights include helping a breaking-and-entering suspect on New Year's Eve, locating a suicidal person who fled during transport to the hospital, and discovering over 14 kilos of heroin and half a million dollars.
Ryker will continue to live with Officer Chipman and his family during retirement.
Conan, who will take over for Ryker, was born in Hungary and is 1 1/2 years old. He will be partnered with Officer Kevin Cavanaugh, and will undergo six weeks of training at the Patrol Dog Academy before hitting the streets. Officer Cavanahgh chose the name Conan for its Irish origin, which is Gaelic for "little wolf."
