The Salem City Council Monday night honored retiring Canine Freddie and handler Dustin Duncan.
Canine Freddie ended his duty on September 2nd.
Mayor Nic Farley presented a plaque of appreciation.
“I actually have a plaque to give you and Freddie, but he got his treats before the meeting. It says in recognition of loyal dedicated service to all the citizens of Salem, the Salem Police Department and his partner Officer Dustin Duncan canine officer Freddie Badge #203 for 7 years of honorable service. Special thanks to Officer Duncan for his work with Freddie on the Salem Police Department Canine Team.”
After the ceremony, Duncan recalled his year’s with Freddie starting with training in Evansville, Indiana.
“First year was getting to know each other and kind of a roller coaster. Good apprehensions and drug arrests. I don’t know the exact number but its around 350 drug arrests total in that 7 years.”
Duncan says Freddie will continue to live with him in retirement.
“Freddie is sitting at home being a lazy everyday family dog.”
Duncan is now working dayshift patrol.
Salem’s new canine will be ready to hit the streets in December following training. Patrolman Grant Green will be the new canine officer.
In a short 15 minute meeting, the city council also named Brad Crow to the Bryan Bennett Library Board and Brooke Frederick to the Salem Tourism Board.
