2020-2022
K-9 SHELBY
Shelby, the Richmond Police Department’s third explosive detection canine, retired in November of 2019 and had since been living at home with her handler and family. She was peacefully laid to rest on September 14, 2022. Prior to coming to RPD, Shelby honorably served in the United States Marine Corps and was deployed overseas where she used her remarkable talents to locate over 600 pounds of explosives and 24 improvised explosive devices! After retiring from the USMC in 2014, Shelby faithfully continued to serve with the RPD for nearly six more years conducting hundreds of searches not only within the city of Richmond but throughout surrounding jurisdictions. Whether it was looking for a gun at a crime scene, searching a school during a bomb threat or conducting sweeps for any number of dignitaries and special events she performed admirably and it felt as if each search was the best thing she had ever done. Her handler stated, “Shelby was always happy to see everyone, loved to be petted and was by far the best dog I have ever had!”
K-9 REX
It is with heaviest of hearts we share the passing of K9 Rex (retired). Rex started his training in 2011. He was a sharp thinker and extremely fast in finding the quickest routes to achieve the goals. He was quick in apprehending with precision and responsible for many throughout his career. He was cross-trained in smokeless powder detection and fast to learn and eager to perform. He was great at finding evidence to help the investigations team. Whenever his handler was down, Rex always made sure he was okay first before proceeding. Ryan, his handler, and Maurine and her family, were friends and companions for Rex throughout his retirement. He will forever be in our hearts. EOW 06/07/22.
K-9 HONDO
K-9 Hondo was diagnosed with late stage cancer and was laid to rest on 11-13-2021 with his handler and family by his side. K-9 Hondo had served the Chesterfield County Police Department for over 6 years. He loyally served alongside two handlers during his career. K-9 Hondo was known for his tremendous work ethic and was a master of his craft. K-9 Hondo located numerous missing persons and items involved in crimes during his career. K-9 Hondo will be missed by all but will continue to watch over his two handlers, our Officers and K-9s who serve Chesterfield County.
K-9 ALVIN
K-9 COAL
Alwin Vom Rehsupf (Alvin) was a German Shepherd, born in the Czech Republic on April 15, 2008. In 2009, Alvin was brought to the United States by Von Der Haus Gill German Shepherds Inc. Kennel, in Ohio. Alvin completed his patrol dog training through Virginia Police Work Dog Association (VPWDA) in 2009 and worked as a Chesterfield County Police Department patrol canine until his retirement in March 2015. Alvin had several notable apprehensions of violent criminals throughout his career. Alvin was known to be a serious, tough, and intimidating police K9 who would often gain compliance from criminals by his presence alone. Alvin was also known to be a good judge of character and was always kind to children and those he came to trust. Alvin competed and placed first in several Iron Dog competitions during his career. Alvin enjoined relaxing in his well-deserved retirement with his handler and family. Alvin left the family he loved when he passed away peacefully on 10/21/2021, with his handler/partner by his side. His family thanks God for the amazing life they were able to share and be part of as Alvin stood watch and protected the people he loved throughout his life.
It is with heavy hearts we share the passing of K9 Coal (retired). Coal retired from the Chesterfield County Police Department in 2017, having served with Corporal Godsey since 2010 as a narcotics detection canine. In his career he won 7 awards including Fastest Narcotics K9, performed many demonstrations and assisted officers in removing illegal drugs from Chesterfield County streets. We're thankful for the dedication of K9 Coal to our community and the joy he brought to the Godsey family. EOW 04/12/22
K-9 SAMANTHA (aka SAMMY)
Samantha was a chocolate Labrador retriever who was born 8/12/06. Samantha was purchased from Break of Dawn Farm & Kennels located in metro Richmond area. Samantha started her career as a Chesterfield County drug dog back in 2007 when she certified with her first handler Scott Gordon. The two were a great team that worked with several undercover units from 2007 up to 2009. In 2009 Samantha was paired with a new handler. They worked with undercover and uniformed officers throughout Chesterfield County and the metro Richmond area. Samantha also assisted state and federal authorities in several drug cases. Samantha played an important part in getting drugs and drug dealers off the streets until 2010 when she was retired. During Samantha’s career, she participated in several Iron dog competitions. In one Iron dog competition host by Richmond Police Department, Samantha place 1st in the woman’s division. Samantha quickly adjusted to retired life. She visited the beach where she dipped her toes in the ocean but preferred laying under shade in the sand. Samantha had a wonderful demeanor. She loved to go up to any new person and lean on them for love and attention. Samantha enjoyed lounging around inside her house with her family. Samantha spent most of her time getting belly rubs, snuggles and treats. Samantha passed on 11-23-2020.