K9 Fiona – Cheshire, North Wales

Cheshire and North Wales police dog unit mourn loss of legendary ‘thief catcher’ RPD Fiona

Cheshire and North Wales Police Dog Alliance have announced the sudden and peaceful passing of Retired Police Dog (RPD) Fiona, a highly respected and beloved former member of their team.RPD Fiona, who fell seriously ill at home yesterday, was with her loving family in her final moments. RPD Fiona’s career with the Alliance, spanning from 2014 to 2021, was marked by numerous accolades and commendations. Renowned for her exceptional tracking abilities, Fiona was one of the best ‘thief catchers’ in the region.A spokesperson from Cheshire and North Wales Police Dogs shared, “Fiona was an amazing dog who received recognition more than once during her career.”“She will be missed dearly, and our thoughts are with her family during this sad time.”Throughout her service, Fiona exemplified the dedication and skill that police dogs bring to their roles.Her ability to track and locate suspects made her an invaluable asset to the police force and earned her the respect and admiration of her colleagues and the community. Many people who knew Fiona shared their tributes on the Facebook post.Gordon said, “Such tragic news. She was one of a kind. Her tracking ability was amazing. Deepest condolences to her retirement family. Run free.”Sharon expressed, “You were one of a kind PD Fi. Black Magnet was your name at home, always by PC Jackie’s leg. Your fun ways and loving nature at home but working with the nose knows. A great retirement with your original puppy walkers then with your breeders where you truly enjoyed your final years. Run free, Fi.”Mel added, “I am so very saddened to hear that you have moved on to your next journey, RPD Fiona. You will certainly be forever missed, loved, remembered and respected. A beautiful, exceptional police dog whose achievements are legendary.”Connor remembered, “Such a loss. I remember meeting Fiona during training. Many a villain were caught by her and her handler. RIP.”“Run free over the rainbow bridge, Fi, your duty is done,” the tribute concluded, capturing the deep sense of loss felt by all who knew her.

Submitted By Jim Cortina

James A. Cortina has been involved with police dogs since 1972 and currently on the Board of Directors for the Connecticut Police Work Dog Association Inc. Jim has been appointed as Treasurer since its inception in 1991. Jim is one of the charter members of the C.P.W.D.A. organization. Since 1975 he has been a certified professional dog trainer and received his Master Trainer Certification in 1985. During his career he has provided armed K-9 strike crowd control for security agencies in Connecticut and out of state security companies. In conjunction with other members of the Connecticut Police Work Dog Association Inc. Board of Directors, he helped to draft Connecticut Statute 53-247(e) "Intentional Injury or Killing of Police K-9" which was passed by the Senate in 1993 and also assisted in implementing the prestigious Daniel Wasson Memorial K-9 Award in 1992. In 1993 he helped coordinate the North American Police Work Dog Association Nationals in New London, Connecticut. He was appointed Training Director for the New London County Work Dog Association from 1985-1987. He performed decoy work for Connecticut Police Work Dog Association Inc. in police K-9 demonstrations, trained several local police department canines, and coordinated training workshops for out-of-state police departments. He participated in the United States Police K-9 Association Trials in Croton on Hudson, New York in 1985 as a decoy. He is an avid photographer and received photography awards in 1989, 1990, and 1991 and currently takes photographs for the Connecticut Police Work Dog Association Inc.