K-9 Ingo

The Albemarle Police Department regrets to inform the public that police canine Ingo died, OCT 24, 2004 as the result of gunshot wounds sustained during an apprehension of a burglary suspect. After being shot and paralyzed in the rear end during this altercation, Ingo continued to engage the suspect. His actions most probably saved the officer's life. Ingo was 9 ½ years old and had been with the Department since 1998.

Ingo was a Czechoslovakian born and trained German Shepherd that was imported to the United States in 1995. He was purchased by the Albemarle County Police Department shortly thereafter and began a very productive career. During his six years of service, Ingo had numerous arrests, tracks, and drug finds to his credit. One of his several apprehensions of note was that of escaped convicted rapist Timothy Eades and a recent drug find of more than five pounds of marijuana. Ingo's list of training certifications is extensive. In 2003, he obtained the title of Certified Police Dog II and was one of only three dogs in this tri-state region to achieve this honor.

Recently, Ingo almost succumbed to an illness commonly referred to as "bloat", an illness from which most dogs do not recover let alone regain the ability to come back as a fully productive working police canine. Shortly after extensive surgery, Ingo was cleared by his veterinarian to return to full working status, which is a true representation of Ingo's drive and desire to serve the Albemarle County community and Police Department.

The relationship between a police canine, the handler, and the Department is one of the most unique in existence, based as it is on the understanding that the dog may be required to sacrifice its life to save a citizen or an officer. Understanding this sacrifice does not lessen the strong bond that develops between dog and handler, and which extends to the officer's family as well as every member of the Police Department. .

Albemarle County Police Dept, Virginia