Pleasant Prairie police mourn the loss of former K-9 officer

PLEASANT PRAIRIE (WITI) -- The Pleasant Prairie Police Department sadly announces the death of retired K-9 officer Rico on Saturday, May 3rd. Rico was born on October 22, 2003 in the Netherlands and then sent to Spring Hope, North Carolina, in 2004 to train for duty. In 2005, Rico joined the Pleasant Prairie Police Department and was assigned to K-9 Handler Scott Durkee. In 2008, Rico was re-assigned to K-9 Handler Chad Brown. Both handlers attended and graduated from a six-week canine handler course in Spring Hope. The police department says Rick retired in late 2011 due to medical conditions. During his six years on duty, Rico captured several fugitives, assisted in tracking lost children and elderly subjects, located narcotics, and preformed vehicle searches. Rico was also a steward of public relations and fostered a positive relationship between the Department and residents through many public appearances and K-9 demonstrations. Police say in Rico's retirement, he continued to reside with his handler Officer Chad Brown. The Police Department say Rico was part of the departments family, as well as the Brown's family. They say the loss is significant for everyone.