K-9 Herkules is a nine year old imported German Shepherd. He is an experienced certified Patrol and Narcotic Detection Canine, who has served the citizens of Riviera Beach for the past seven years. K-9 Herkules is able to detect five different illegal narcotics such as Marijuana, Cocaine, Heroin, Ecstasy, and Meth. His patrol capabilities consist of Criminal Apprehension, Area Search, Building Search, Tracking, and Obedience.
K-9 Herkules has also assisted the Special Response Team on numerous narcotic search warrants as well as narcotic searches during traffic stops. During his tenure, K-9 Herkules is responsible for over 20 criminal arrests.
K-9 Herkules has performed in various K-9 demonstrations at local events throughout the city. K-9 Herkules is most known for his exceptional tracking ability after responding to a burglary that had just occurred. K-9 Herkules tracked to a nearby residence, based on the confidence that Officer Edwards has for Herkules abilities he relayed his finding to the Patrol Officers. Shortly after obtaining a Search Warrant, property from the burglarized residence was located within the property to which K-9 Herkules had tracked. In addition, K-9 Herkules assisted US Customs Officers by conducting narcotic searches on passengers' luggage as they returned from the Bahamas. K-9 Herkules gave a positive alert which revealed a large amount of Cocaine in a suitcase.
When off duty, K-9 Herkules is the most humble, gentle, and loving working dog you’ve ever seen. The Edwards’ family is proud to have K-9 Herkules as part of their family. They are also proud of his success and the confidence of knowing that he will protect Officer Cedrick Edwards at all times. K-9 Herkules has always been ready to go to war at a moment’s notice, and will be greatly missed.
It is the Department's recommendation that Police K-9 Herkules be retired from active service. Given K-9 Herkules' age, years of service, and increased maintenance costs, staff is recommending that we not retain this property.
K-9 Herkules has served with distinction, and the Department does not anticipate any future Law Enforcement use of this animal.
Consistent with our practice, the disposal of this property by sale is recommended. The method used when a K-9 dog retires is to sell the animal, at nominal cost, by execution of a Bill of Sale, effectively removing the dog from City inventory. Traditionally, K-9 Officers have been given the first opportunity and option of adopting the retired animal. Officer Edwards has requested permission to adopt the retiring K-9.
Ratification of the Bill of Sale and its terms and conditions transfers ownership and all responsibility for maintenance and liability associated with the K-9 dog from the City to the new owner.