Memorial service held for deceased CCSO K-9 Riggs.
Citrus County Sheriff's Office
On March 22, 2024, the Citrus County Sheriff's Office (CCSO) held a memorial ceremony for K9 Riggs (police dog), who passed away following emergency abdominal surgery, March 2, 2024. On the afternoon of February 29, K9 Riggs's human partner, Deputy Rudy Danner, found Riggs lethargic in his kennel ad rushed him to an emergency veterinary hospital, but Riggs unfortunately passed on.
Riggs, who was six years-old, worked five years as a certified narcotics, apprehension, and tracking dog at the Citrus County Sheriff's Office. K9 Riggs was an immense asset to his agency, being used 473 times to assist his agency. During his employment, K9 Riggs located 32 people, apprehended 21 people, conducted 358 vehicle sniffs, and positively located narcotics 284 times, seizing:
• 120.2 grams of fentanyl
• 680.16 grams of methamphetamine
• 191.41 grams of cocaine
• 78.12 grams of heroin
• 2,290.15 grams of marijuana
• $39,193.16 in cash
• 7 firearms
"K9 Riggs was an invaluable member of our team and a loyal companion to Deputy Danner," said Citrus County Sheriff Mike Prendergast. "His tireless dedication was an outstanding help in keeping Citrus County safe for our citizens. All of us will miss K9 Riggs greatly. Thank you, K9 Riggs, for your service."
"Thank you to our fellow sheriff's office agencies for joining us today in honoring the faithful service of K9 Riggs," said Sydney Hudson, CCSO Community Relations Specialist. "Thank you to our community for your outpouring of support and prayers during this difficult time."