Zeus was a dedicated member of the Ridgefield, CT police force and beloved by his fellow officers. The message on their Facebook page today says it all:
“Zeus, it is with tears in our eyes that we must say goodbye. You were a valued member of our team and only did great things. It was an honor to work beside you and knowing that you were there always helped put our minds at ease. We know you would not have hesitated to lay down your life for any of us if we were ever faced with a life threatening situation. You wore the Ridgefield Police badge with Respect, Pride and Dignity. Thank you for keeping us all safe over the years. You will be dearly missed but never forgotten. Rest in Peace our friend.”
Photo Credit: Ridgefield Police Department
Late yesterday afternoon, Zeus was honored with one last ride in the police squad car he has worked out of since he joined the force back in 2006. Zeus retired last year due to a degenerative hip disorder, and had reached a point in the disease where everyone knew it was unfair to ask him to keep going. After a honorary drive through the town, Officer Shawn Murray, who was his handler, partner, and family, wheeled him into the Ridgefield Veterinary Hospital. Officers stood and saluted him as he went into the building.
Photo Credit: WTNH/Josh Scheinblum
During his time as a Police K-9, Zeus helped numerous people by assisting with 250 narcotics arrests, tracking 50 missing and/or wanted people, and located six people in life-threatening situations. He also participated in many public demonstrations given by the police department. He is fondly remembered and will always live on as a hero and beloved colleague in Ridgefield. RIP, Zeus.
Photo Credit: Ridgefield Police Department
Watch video of Zeus’ final procession here:
References:
1. Ridgefield Police Department
2. NBC Connecticut
3. WTNH
