Springfield, Mo. ~ Springfield, Mo. - The Springfield Police Department (SPD) is mourning the loss of one of their beloved retired K9 officers, Rocky. On Friday, March 28, the 14-year-old yellow Labrador Retriever passed away at home surrounded by his family.

Rocky had served the SPD for nine years before retiring in 2020 to live with his handler, Lt. Jason Copley. He was the department's only yellow lab and joined the narcotics unit in 2011. Throughout his career, Rocky was a dedicated and exemplary K9 officer who took great pride in sniffing out illegal drugs and getting them off the streets.

During his time with the SPD, Rocky made significant contributions to the community by finding a total of 23,452 grams of meth, 70,668 grams of marijuana, 116 grams of cocaine, and 500 grams of heroin. He also helped recover $174,434 in drug proceeds.

More on Missouriar

• Columbia Police respond to shooting at Cosmopolitan Park, April 12
• Columbia Police respond to shooting on East Broadway, April 13
• Unlocking the Secrets of Mystery and Magic:
• Nevada Supreme Court Faces Pivotal Decision in Probate Appeal Involving Alleged Judicial Misconduct and Fiduciary Fraud
• Revolutionary Partnership Bridging AI/Youth Sports/Business

Lt. Copley fondly remembers Rocky as a rare and exceptional K9 officer who always had a smile on his face and a joyful heart while serving the community. "Regardless of the hour or conditions, he lived to serve," said Copley. "He served us well with his signature wobble and an unwavering dedication."

In his well-deserved retirement, Rocky enjoyed playing outside, resting on the front porch, befriending feral cats, and showing incredible friendliness to everyone he encountered. He was laid to rest at Lakeland Pet Cemetery at Rivermonte Memorial Gardens next to another beloved K9 officer from SPD, Charlie.

The entire SPD community is grateful for Rocky's service and will always remember him as a loyal and dedicated member of their team.

---

Show All News | Report Violation