Retiring Darien Police Dog Honored In Dignified Ceremony

DARIEN, IL — Police officers work decades before retiring. For a police dog, retirement comes much sooner, but remember that dog years are shorter.

At Monday's Darien City Council meeting, Niko (Badge No. 393) was honored for his eight years of work (See the video). He started April 8, 2013, and his last day was Tuesday. His handler is Officer Tony Hruby.

The data is incomplete in Niko's first two years, but since 2015, his work resulted in the recovery of more than 400 pounds of drugs, 15 guns and more than $1 million in cash, according to the police department.

"Niko has a great track record of tracking offenders who fled the police," Police Chief Greg Thomas told the council.

In six of 13 situations where Niko was tracking suspects, he was successful, Thomas said. In several cases, Niko found evidence that suspects discarded as they ran away.

"In one situation during the recovery of a stolen car, the offenders started to flee, but when Niko was deployed, the two offenders gave up. I wonder why," the chief said.

As Thomas spoke, Niko chewed on a tennis ball.

With Niko's work and his backup of his fellow officers, Thomas said, "it is with great pleasure that we show our appreciation to a member of the police family who has given much of his life to serving and protecting our community. He has earned the privilege to live out his life free of work."

Thomas said Niko would be in the "loving care" of Hruby, his wife Erin and two daughters.

"Niko, we wish you the best. We'll miss you. We honor you," the chief said.

As city officials applauded Niko's service, the dog barked in response.

The city purchased another dog, Axle, in September. Axle (Badge No. 394) is handled by Officer Dave Milazzo.