Several area law enforcement agencies and Wapakoneta residents came together Friday morning to say their final goodbyes to a beloved retired Wapakoneta Police Department K-9. As a way to honor the life, legacy, and impact of their four-legged partner, K-9 Rico was greeted and visited one last time by his family of fellow police brothers and sisters as well as residents inside Wapakoneta City Council Chambers.

Rico, the department's K9, started his career back in 2011, helping sniff and chase down suspects. In his 9 years, he has served alongside his sidekick officer Joseph Welker for the past 9 years. According to the Wapakoneta Police Department Facebook page, he enjoyed some biscuits and belly rubs during his party, and will be enjoying retirement with the Welker family. 

Two lucky students from Wapakoneta Middle School got to see a day in the life of a police officer. The students followed around an officer from the Wapakoneta Police Department and saw the different training scenarios he goes through with his K9. A lucky assistant principal also took part in the day, helping out as the subject in one of the scenarios. K9 Rico is retiring after nine years. The officer is buying a new dog and the students wanted to help out. These two students were the lucky winners of a two-week contest that helped to raise funds for the officer's new dog.