Cato Retires After Seven Years of Service and 350 Narcotics Arrests

Kato, the beloved narcotics detection dog, is set to retire after over seven years of dedicated service, during which he made more than 350 narcotics-related arrests and assisted in numerous drug and money seizures. The announcement came during the Williamson County Commissioners Court meeting on August 26, 2025, where officials praised Kato's contributions to law enforcement and community safety.

Kato, who is now nine and a half years old, has shown signs of slowing down, prompting the decision for his retirement. His handler noted that Kato is one of the most popular employees in the department, highlighting the strong bond between the dog and the community. As part of his retirement plan, Kato will be moved to a ranch, ensuring he enjoys a comfortable life after his service.

In addition to Kato's retirement, the court discussed updates to the employee policy manual, including a correction to salary listings, and approved revisions to the purchasing policy manual. These changes reflect ongoing efforts to keep county policies aligned with legislative updates and market standards.

The meeting also included an update on the Williamson County Exposition Center, with Parks Director Russell Fishback providing insights into ongoing projects and operations. The court unanimously approved several items, reinforcing their commitment to effective governance and community service.

As Kato embarks on his new chapter, the county looks forward to welcoming a new canine officer to continue the important work in narcotics detection.