Editor
The Union Township Police Department officially retired K-9 Officer Daron on Dec. 8 after nine years with the department.
He started at the department in April 2008, working with Officer Mark Stephens. Since Daron began, he and Stephens have logged more than 1,500 hours of training, been deployed more than 4,700 times, conducted more than 1,400 vehicle sniffs, have located illegal narcotics or drug paraphernalia more than 450 times, have led directly to arrests more than 500 times and much more, said trustee John McGraw during the Dec. 8 trustee meeting.
Stephens was chosen more than nine years ago out of a group of applicants to start the program, said Police Chief Scott Gaviglia. Being a K-9 handler takes a lot of hard work and dedication, he said, as Stephens spends a lot of time training and Daron lives with him.
“Mark’s training ability is second to none. I appreciate his professionalism and everything he’s done for the township,” Gaviglia said.
McGraw recalled a time when he rode with Officer Stephens and Daron, describing his amazement at all they could accomplish, and how quickly people gave up evidence with Daron there.
“Over eight plus years Daron has become an integral part in the efforts of the police department to execute their duties and service to the community. Daron and Officer Stephens have, through their hard work, professionalism, continuously led the confiscation of illegal narcotics, paraphernalia, suspects and items of critical evidentiary value,” McGraw said.
He added, “Daron and Officer Stephens have provided many years of great service to Union Township. Their effort and dedication have also extended to the entire Clermont County area, where their efforts are equally appreciated.”
Trustees Lloyd Acres and Matt Beamer both compliment Stephens and Daron on their achievements and thanked them for everything they’ve done.
“Thank you for your work, for your service,” Beamer said.
Stephens did not return requests for comment in time for publication.