During the month of October we are highlighting information about the K9 units of Marion County. The dogs are trained to conduct building and large area searches for hidden criminals, tracking lost persons and criminals, article/evidence searches, and narcotics detection.
Though this is a light-hearted interview, asking questions as if the dogs have voices, they are valued personnel to the police department and community. We thank them and their partners for their service and time given to protect the people of Marion County.
Can you tell us what your name means and how you got this name?
My name is fitting for the job I do, as I specialize in narcotics detection, which is how I got the name Stash.
What kind of dog are you? Before coming to Marion County, where did you live?
I am a 5-year-old English Springer Spaniel. I was born in France and made a stop at Storm Dog Tactical in Delaware County before finally calling Marion my forever home.
You have a partner–Detective Colin Lowe. What are his best characteristics? How long have you worked together?
My favorite thing about my partner, Colin, is how much dedication he has towards me and my job. He is very motivated and is always pushing me to do my best. We have been working together for the last year and a half.
What is your best skill at work?
My best skill at work is my only job–finding illegal drugs! I am very determined to help my partner and co-workers find illegal drugs and remove them from the streets of Marion. My co-workers also joke that I have a skill of sneaking under their desks at our office to see if I like anything in their trash can.
During your time off, what is your favorite thing to do? Do you have a favorite toy?
As much as I love working, I also enjoy being at home with my family. My favorite thing to do at home is play with my two best dog friends. My second favorite thing to do is to sneak on the couch so I can sleep and relax. Other than my tennis ball, my favorite toy is usually whatever bone the other dogs have, which I always steal. Outside, I enjoy running and playing catch with a frisbee.
If you could tell the people of Marion anything, what would you want to say?
First, I want to say thank you to the Marion community. The support our entire K-9 unit gets is amazing! Secondly, I often get asked if I really am a Police Dog. When you think of a Police K-9, you typically think of a dog that bites, when in reality, Police K-9’s are used for many different things. This goes to show anybody, just because you are different than what is “normal,” you still have a purpose and can be successful. Stop out and see me at one of our many events!
#marionmade #WeAreMarionPoliceDepartment