A police dog named Apache, who served for over eight years and once took a bullet for his handler, was honored with a retirement ceremony in Indiana on Tuesday, according to the Indiana State Police.
Apache, a K-9 officer, had been partnered with Trooper Walter Butt since September 2016. At the retirement ceremony, Apache was celebrated with “all his favorite things from his favorite people,” as stated by the Indiana State Police.
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The police statement added, “In a fun ceremony with his favorite people, Indiana State Police K9 Apache retired from duty. He will now enjoy life as a family pet with his lifelong partner, Trooper Walter Butt.” Notably, in 2017, Apache saved his handler’s life by taking a bullet to the neck during a police shooting incident. The suspect was arrested, and Apache made a full recovery, returning to duty just three weeks later.
Throughout his distinguished career, Apache played a crucial role in numerous operations, helping seize over 954 pounds of illegal drugs, 167 guns, and more than $1.6 million in drug-related funds. He also assisted in the arrest of 84 criminals, took part in 77 civil cases, and apprehended seven suspects by biting, according to authorities.
Apache’s drug seizures included 303 pounds of methamphetamine, 5.56 pounds of cocaine, 3.19 pounds of ecstasy, 3.58 pounds of heroin, 587 pounds of marijuana, and 51 pounds of other illegal substances. He was also involved in 843 traffic stop vehicle sniffs, which resulted in 561 arrests, and completed 196 warrant services, 14 school searches, 42 building searches, and 44 tracks, leading to eight apprehensions. His efforts led to the recovery of 167 firearms.
On Tuesday, Apache was given his final “10-42,” a signal marking the end of his tour of duty.
“Apache will now enjoy his well-deserved retirement at home with the Butt family,” the police said. “Thank you for your service, Apache!”
