SOUTH WHITEHALL TWP., Pa. — After working most of his life in law enforcement, a beloved member of the South Whitehall Township Police Department is ready for retirement.
And that retirement had better include plenty of toys and treats, seeing as that aforementioned police officer is a dog.
K-9 Drax, a Belgian Malinois born in 2017, became part of South Whitehall’s police force in 2018, partnering with Sgt. Kevin Smith.
“At this time, we thank K-9 Drax and his trusted handler Sergeant Smith for their teamwork and service to our community, and we wish K-9 Drax a happy, healthy retirement."South Whitehall Township Commissioner Monica Hodges
After completing an intensive eight-week training program, Drax spent seven years as a patrol and narcotics detection dog, “becoming a vital asset to the department,” according to a memorandum from South Whitehall’s board of commissioners.
“Drax was deployed countless times for narcotics searches, suspect tracks, building clearings, article recoveries, and tactical operations," the memorandum reads.
"He played a key role in a major fentanyl seizure in October 2019 and helped apprehend a homicide suspect in October 2024.
“In addition to his operational success, Drax was a familiar and loved presence at community demonstrations throughout Lehigh County.
"He was equally known for his playful personality around the station and the close bond he shared with fellow officers.”
'Truly man's best friend'
Department administration, alongside Smith, decided to retire Drax from service after careful consideration.
“At this time, we thank K9 Drax and his trusted handler Sergeant Smith for their teamwork and service to our community," Commissioner Monica Hodges said.
"And we wish K-9 Drax a happy, healthy retirement. Enjoy your well-earned rest.”South Whitehall Township Commissioner Monica Hodges
"And we wish K-9 Drax a happy, healthy retirement. Enjoy your well-earned rest.”
Hodges said she was “getting emotional,” and that Drax is “truly man’s best friend.”
In retirement, Drax figures to be in good hands: Smith requested to officially adopt his old partner, “allowing him to live out his retirement in a loving and comfortable home.”
Immediately following the passage of the resolution recognizing Drax’s service, the board passed another resolution officiating his retirement and granting his adoption to Smith.
Drax enjoyed the show at the township commissioners' Wednesday meeting, happily celebrating his retirement while playing around with Smith and all his former colleagues.
According to Priority 1 Canine, Belgian Malinois are excellent police dogs that “are celebrated for their sharp minds, agility, and fierce loyalty, making them a top pick for K9 units around the globe.”
