The Windsor Police Service is saying goodbye to a member of the K9 Unit.
Police dog "Rony" officially announced his retirement Monday from the Windsor Police Service. He joined the team in September 2010 and served the community for nine years.
During his career, police say "Rony" and his handler, Sgt. Patti Pastorius, attended more than 35-hundred calls for service and assisted in over 120 arrests -- including one that stands out.
"One of the favorites still is the Lumberjack robbery that happened up on Tecumseh years ago, his track actually was able to introduce some video surveillance which led to the suspects being arrested," remembers Pastorius.
They also received numerous first place trophies in competitions held with the United States Police Canine Association.
An emotional Pastorius called the position with Rony and the K9 unit "the job of a lifetime. "
"Even thanking the people of Windsor and the Windsor Police Service and my canine team for giving me this job and the opportunity to serve and protect this city, I couldn't have asked for anything more," says Pastorius. "And the partner that they gave me, absolutely amazing. He is unbelievable. I will miss him."
"Rony" will continue to live with Pastorius and her family in retirement, while Pastorius remains on patrol.
Pastorius tells AM800 News "Rony" has been the best partner.
"He has given me the confidence to do things that I normally wouldn't be able to do," admits Pastorius. "The pride that I feel even when I pull him out, he's protected me every single shift, every moment of the day, I couldn't have asked for a better partner."