Police Chief Chris Graddy recognized Officer CJ Hill and his K9 partner Zolin at the City Council meeting on Aug. 27. 

Officer Zolin has developed some health problems and is retiring from duty. He served the department for four years with numerous narcotic detections that led to misdemeanor and felony arrests. 

Graddy said, “He has served us well. This is the only life he knows. We’ve made arrangements for Zolin to continue to live with the Hill family. We appreciate them. It takes a special family to endure the long nights away and phone calls in the middle of the night when someone needs a tracker and especially to have this type of officer in their home with them 24/7.”

Graddy said Zolin had more than 25 tracks and made two physical apprehensions himself. “Trust me, you don’t want that. The only way he can apprehend is with what is in his mouth.”

“I also want to mention that Officer Hill purchased Canine Zolin with his own GI Bill. This shows the dedication he has for the K9 program.”

Graddy presented Zolin’s passport and medical records to Officer Hill and thanked Hill and Zolin for their service.