Have Fun, Sandor: Lynnwood K-9 Police Dog, a Hero to Edmonds Police, Retires

When police dogs retire, they don't move to a warmer climate. In most cases, t with their human police partner.

That's the case with Lynnwood Police K9 Officer Sandor, who is ready for his easy chair at home with his handler, Lynnwood Police Sgt. Jason Valentine, and his family.

"Sgt. Valentine and Sandor have served the Lynnwood Police Department ably and valiantly for the last eight years,” said Lynnwood Police Chief Steve Jensen. “Sandor has captured numerous offenders who were responsible for criminal acts in Lynnwood. He will be rewarded with a comfortable retirement in the care of Sgt. Valentine.”

Sandor had the distinction of being honored by the Edmonds Police Department. In May 2010, he sniffed out and recovered about $80,000 of missing jewels that were hidden in a spice container and stashed by an armed robbery suspect in the city, which gave the K-9 a commendation medal.

Sandor, who is 9, has been an active K-9 Officer since 2003. From 2003 to the end of 2005 he was matched with Lynnwood Police Officer Denis Molloy. Lynnwood’s Sgt. Valentine and Sandor started together in January of 2006.

“Sandor was an excellent partner in Patrol and SWAT,” said Valentine. “He had phenomenal drive and, like me, truly loved to catch the bad guys. He was tough, extremely capable, and always gave 110 percent. I will miss not having him in the car with me on a daily basis.”

Sandor has been replace by two new K-9s, Eli and Zando. These K9s were paid for with grants and community donations.