Boulder Police Launch New K9 Unit

BOULDER, Colo. – The Boulder Police Department is proud to unveil a new police dog to enhance public safety in the community.

After a generous gift from a community member to fund the program, Chief Maris Herold and City Manager Nuria Riviera-Vandermyde approved the creation of this new team, which will help sniff out evidence during investigations. The new dog is a female Lab and shorthaired Pointer mix. She’s about 1 and a half years old and comes from Washington state. She will be an explosives detection and community engagement dog.

“We all know Boulder is dog friendly city and I’m sure the community will welcome her like we have. This K9 team will be a great asset to the city and help us in keeping the public safe,” Chief Herold said. “Our new dog was made possible by the generosity of the community and their support for all of the great work our officers do every day.”

Boulder Police has not had a police K9 in more than 20 years and this new team will fill an important need when it comes to calls regarding firearms, explosives and other gun-related crimes. They will also be at numerous police-related community engagement events.

Without further ado, meet Boulder Police K9 Astro! She will be sworn in by Chief Herold at 4 p.m. today during our oath of office ceremony. The new K9 team will soon begin several weeks of training together.

K9 Astro’s name also has a special meaning. Fallen Officer Eric Talley’s favorite sports team was the Houston Astros and everyone thought this name was a fitting tribute to a great man. It also reminds others of the celestial stars and heavens, reminiscent of Officer Talley’s strong faith. To some, the name makes them think of the cartoon show The Jetsons, but to our knowledge, BPD’s Astro is not related to cartoon Astro.

When asked what she was most looking forward to about her new role, BPD K9 Astro replied, “Woof woof, Boulder, woof woof!”

We translate that to mean, “She’s ready to be a bone-afide Boulder Police officer.” Lab reports coming soon.

Video: https://bldr.fyi/BPDK9

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