(DeLand, FL) – The DeLand Police Department has added a furry, four-legged officer to the force.

This week, Riggs, a 2-year-old Golden Retriever, began patrolling the streets of DeLand with his police handler, Officer Roger Spires.

Riggs is trained certified in tracking missing and endangered people and locating narcotics. He will also make appearances at local schools, retirement homes and community events.

Officer Spires said Riggs is fitting in well at his new home and loves receiving hugs from his family and even strangers.

Riggs was purchased through funds provided by Dr. Caesar DePaço, Chief Executive Officer of Summit Nutritionals International and Honorary Consul of Portugal in Florida.

Currently, there was four K-9 officers at the DeLand Police Department.

Police Chief Jason Umberger thanked Dr. DePaço for his contributions, which have filled out 75 percent of the police department’s canine unit. Dr. DePaço also provided funds for two other K-9s.

“We’re happy to have Riggs as the newest member of the police department,” Chief Umberger said. “I’m looking forward to the work he and Officer Spires will do in our community.”

Source:
DeLand Police Department

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