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Retired Police Canine Rico Laid To Rest
The Petaluma Police Department is remembering a police canine that recently passed away. The police canine Rico, who served the Petaluma community between 2006 and 2013, died at the age of 14. Rico was laid to rest on Thursday, according to the Petaluma Police Department. The canine was partnered with police officer Michael Page. As an active police canine, Rico aided in suspect apprehensions, handler protection and narcotics detection, and he gained the respect, recognition and service requests from local, state and federal law enforcement partners, police said. Rico was responsible for the seizure of thousands of pounds of illegal drugs, millions of dollars in drug-related assets and hundreds of suspect apprehensions and surrenders. As Officer Page’s true crime fighting partner, Rico carried on the long-standing tradition of excellence by our police canine program. From suspect apprehension, handler protection, and narcotics detection, Rico developed a reputation of excellence in police dog services that would garner respect, recognition and requests from local, state, and federal partners in the pursuit of criminals, drug trafficking, and officer safety. Rico’s abilities contributed to the success of the first narcotics interdiction campaign in the county. Rico won numerous trophies and titles at canine competitions for many years and he loved the opportunity to engage with our community at all levels, especially with youth. Rico retired with the Page family here in Petaluma. In retirement Rico has continued warm the hearts of anyone who has met him. Rico always knew how to be a brave and fearless police dog, but he was best known for his gentle demeanor and desire to be near anyone. Rico’s career with the department ended in 2013 when he jumped from a second story balcony and suffered life-threatening injuries. Following his retirement, he lived out his final years with the Page family in Petaluma.
