HOPKINSVILLE, KY (CHRISTIAN COUNTY NOW) – The Hopkinsville Police Department has officially rescued a five-month-old Belgian Malinois mix from the Christian County Animal Shelter. Lovingly named Radar, he will not work as K9 Officer but instead will act as a mascot and community liaison for the department.

On April 6, Public Information Officer Justin Rios officially welcomed Radar to HPD and brought him in for his first day of good dog duty. During a live stream, Rios shared that he worked to prepare his home and family for a potential adoption before connecting with the shelter for a possible match.

“I’ve had dogs for as long as I can remember, with a couple of cats mixed in over the years. There’s just something about the companionship they provide,” Rios told Christian County Now. “Even in my professional career, that connection carried over, I previously served as a K-9 handler with the department before transitioning into my role as an SRO.”

After he brought Radar home to meet his family and other animals, he felt it was a good fit. He explained that they both will be out and about a lot this summer and spring as more events pop up.

Hopkinsville says bye to Bolo, HPD’s first paw-trol dog

Radar is not the first dog take on this role in the department. He will be filling the big paws of Bolo, his predecessor. In November 2023, Bolo was sworn in by the mayor as HPD’s first “paw-trol” officer. Since then, he was frequently seen hanging around the station and attending community events, some of which he had a direct invitation to.

“When I stepped into the PIO position, I definitely felt the weight of continuing the tradition,” said Rios. “Bolo had such a strong impact, not only within the department but throughout the community as well. I wanted to make sure we did it right…After spending time with Radar and seeing how well he fit in with everyone, the decision really made itself.”

Bolo was adopted by former PIO Royale Marfil, who similarly adopted him from the Christian County Animal Shelter after a chance meeting. After years in the department, Officer Marfil recently transitioned back into a patrol position and Bolo retired from his mascot role.

Bolo still resides with Marfil and joins her on patrol, although his days of roaming around and demanding treats and cuddles from the public have slightly shifted.

Although Officer Rios says Radar is not a replacement for Bolo, he will do his best to step up as the city’s cutest mascot. With his love of attention and friendly personality, he is already making connections with Chief Jason Newby and others he meets.

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