Crime & Safety

Police Dog Dies Unexpectedly, Remembered as 'Fearless'

Niko, a member of the Woodbury Police Department K9 Unit, died on Monday, Dec. 23.

Woodbury Police Department K-9 Niko died unexpectedly while off-duty at home on Monday, Dec. 23. 

Niko was born in January 2006 and became a member of the Woodbury Police Department's K-9 Unit in March 2007, according to a department news release. "His handler, Officer Jason Posel, took great pride in their training and accomplishments."

Niko was nationally certified and could track people, clear buildings, detect drugs and apprehend suspects. "In both 2011 and 2012, Niko received perfect scores and won first place at the United States Police Canine Association (USPCA), Narcotics Certification," according to the news release.

"His keen sense and high-level training attributed to numerous arrests during his tenure at the department," the news release said. He attended many community events, including Woodbury Days.

"The department will remember Niko as a fearless, highly intelligent and tenacious police dog."


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