Waco Police said that a K-9 officer will be retiring due to a medical condition.
Viper’s health started to deteriorate in February, and he developed weakness in his limbs. After going to Texas A&M University, it is believed he has a cervical spine lesion.
Viper has been with the Waco Police Department for more than 5 years. During his time there, he was utilized over 2,400 times, conducted 344 narcotics searches and located one or more of his trained odors 112 times.
He has searched over 90 buildings looking for possible suspects, assisted on 273 warrant searches and 326 felony arrests.
Viper has been called to assist federal, state, county and other municipal law enforcement personnel.
He was born May 16, 2009 in Queretaro, Mexico and was imported by the Canine Headquarters of Hutto, TX in August 2011.
Viper began his training in Waco with Officer Ray Woodruff.
Viper and Officer Woodruff were fully certified by the National Narcotic Dog Association in both Narcotics Detention and Patrol Work in October 2011.
Viper was also an ambassador for the Waco Police Department and the City of Waco. During his time as ambassador, he greeted well over school age children within McLennan County and performed demonstrations for many local and civic events.
Waco police said they are saddened for his retirement, but are excited to now he will retire to a life of leisure, rest and relaxation with his partner, Officer Woodruff.
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