‘Dedicated’ K9 officer Arras retires

Arras the police K9 has become something of a familiar face at the airport over the last nine years.

He’s been responsible for some of the biggest drugs busts on the island and has helped stop millions of dollars worth of cannabis, cocaine and heroin from getting on to the streets.

So it was only fitting that the Belgian Malinois was given a proper send off yesterday to mark his retirement from front line duty.

The gentle hound, who has been in the charge of PC Denise Downey for his entire police career, will now enjoy a more sedate way of life with the Gunn family.

Chief Inspector Calvin Smith said: “It is our belief that our dogs are an integral part of our policing family and thus they should be given a fitting tribute in their retirement Arras has proudly served the Bermuda Police Service for almost nine years.

“He is fully trained to detect illegal narcotics and firearms, track criminals or lost persons as well as apprehend criminals and protect his handler.”

Arras was born in Holland and completed extensive training there for the first few years of his life.

At about three-years-old he achieved the highest merit in his training. He then travelled to a kennel in Indiana in 2004 where he was paired with PC Downey. 

The duo completed five weeks of vigorous training and collected several awards at the Police K9 Olympics.

And in the summer of 2004 Arras arrived in Bermuda to start his career as a Bermuda Police canine.

Chief Inspector Smith added: “Arras has a very gentle nature and the Police Service utilized this by having him attend many schools and public functions throughout the Island.

“We also would like to formally acknowledge the partnership between PC Downey and K9 officer Arras.

“This is not just a partnership, it is a family.

“So today is bitter sweet as Arras will now enjoy the bounties of retirement and PC Downey will have to contemplate life without her partner and friend.

“We would like to thank Constable Downey for her work and commitment with Arras.

“He is a good dog because she is a caring, loving, and compassionate owner.”