Shawnee County sheriff’s K9 Drago retired after 10 years of service

The Shawnee County Board of County Commissioners on Jan. 16 formally acknowledged the retirement of Drago, a 10‑year‑old German Shepherd who served as a dual‑purpose patrol and explosives‑detection dog for the Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office.

Brian Hill of the Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office presented Drago’s record to the board and the public, describing a decade of service. Hill said Drago was born in the Czech Republic, served with several handlers during his career and operated as both a patrol and explosives‑detection canine. Hill told commissioners the dog performed more than 250 explosive sweeps at local venues, completed about 15,000 detection sniffs for explosives and narcotics, performed roughly 80 patrol deployments and was involved in the apprehension of more than 70 felons during his career. "So at this time, we just want to thank Drago for his service," Hill said.

Commissioners moved to acknowledge the sheriff’s correspondence announcing Drago’s retirement and the planned transfer of ownership to his current handler, Deputy Guy Gardner. Chair Aaron Mays observed that Drago still appeared eager to work, saying, "you can tell he still wants to work. I think it's a reluctant retirement here." The motion to acknowledge the correspondence passed 3‑0.

Drago’s retirement was effective Jan. 1, 2025, according to the correspondence presented to the board; the sheriff’s office indicated ownership would be transferred to Deputy Guy Gardner. County commissioners and several members of the sheriff’s canine unit were present for the recognition and photographs.

The board’s action on Drago was an acknowledgement of receipt of the retirement correspondence and did not create additional county obligations beyond recording the notice and the transfer of ownership.