Sheriff's Dept. K-9 dies of cancer

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE) - A law enforcement patrol dog died this week of cancer, one of about a half dozen dogs working for the Bernalillo County Sheriff's Department.

Riko joined BCSO in 2005 and worked next to Deputy Kevin Sheldahl day and night for the last few years

"In the true sense of the word they do become a team," said Lt. David Knowles. "They are working together on a daily basis; they do see each other at home, off-duty."

Riko's primary duty was protecting Sheldahl and the other deputies while out on a call. He was a patrol dog. But he also had another job.

"Searching businesses, searching houses, searching fields," Knowles said. "Always in the pursuit of capture of suspects."

Riko also sniffed for explosives at large events in the state such as when Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano took the stage at a conference in New Mexico.

The German shepherd stood by Sheldahl for several years and quickly grew a bond.

"He was pretty territorial and pretty territorial with Sheldahl," Knowles said.

He had adopted Riko from Germany.

"He always enjoyed doing the work of being out there on the street with us," said Knowles.

But just two weeks ago Riko became so sick and couldn't go to work.

Knowles said everyone tried to stay optimistic.

"Unfortunately, the veterinarian did a biopsy and did find that there was a very aggressive growth cancer in his intestines," said Knowles.

Riko had an inoperable tumor. There was no other choice but to put him to sleep.

Knowles said they've lost one of their own.

"He was a good team member," Knowles said. "Absolutely, he knew was part of the team."

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