It was with an all-in favor vote that the trustees approved K-9 Noras’s retirement and approved the request by Officer Josh Jackson for K-9 Noras to remain with him and his family where he will enjoy his retirement with rest and play.

Chief Brian McKenzie told the trustees that it was with great pride and deep gratitude that he was announcing K-9 Noras’s retirement from active duty with the police department which became effective Oct. 6.

K-9 Noras, who was with Jackson throughout the entire meeting sitting, watching and sometimes playing, appeared to understand what was happening as he laid down and stretched out as if he was ready for a nap after his retirement was approved.

“K-9 Noras has served with honor and distinction since 2018, partnering with Officer (Joshua) Jackson as a key member of our K-9 Unit. Throughout his years of service, K-9 Noras demonstrated unwavering dedication, courage and loyalty in the line of duty,” McKenzie said. “He has played a vital role in narcotics detection, search and rescue operations, suspect apprehension, community outreach and has been instrumental in securing the safety of both officers and the community we serve.”

Police Chief Brian McKenzie celebrates K-9 Noras’s retirement by giving him a piece of cake. (Photo by Kristi R. Garabrandt)

McKenzie cited K-9 Noras’s accomplishments as over 800 deployments and more than 100 search warrants with the St. Clair Police Department, Drug Enforcement Agency, Drug Task Force and other agencies. K-9 Noras located over 10 pounds of marijuana and over 100 ounces of narcotics through various traffic stops and search warrants. K-9 Noras was also responsible for the seizure of over $50,000 in narcotics-related cash.

“His [K9 Noras] contributions have not only had a tangible impact on public safety but have also left a lasting impression on all who had the privilege to work alongside him,” McKenzie said.

Following the approval of his retirement, those in attendance gathered to pet K-9 Noras. A slice of cake was given to K-9 Noras to celebrate his retirement. K-9 Noras, who doesn’t often have sweets, devoured the slice of cake given to him.

Retired K-9 Noras enjoys a piece of cake to celebrate his retirement. (Photo by Kristi R. Garabrandt)

Officer and K-9 Handler Joshua Jackson with newly retired K-9 Noras. (Photo by Kristi R. Garabrandt)

K-9 Noras sits with his handler Officer Joshua Jackson, Officer Joshua Jackson, Jackson’s wife Ashley and daughters Olivia (16) and Ava (6), while his retirement is announced and approved. (Photo by Kristi R. Garabrandt)