After six years of loyal service detecting narcotics, recovering evidence, and aiding in high-profile investigations, Galesburg Police Department K9 Zeus #184 officially retired Monday night with a proclamation from the City Council.
Mayor Peter Schwartzman read the proclamation honoring Zeus’s career during the Feb. 2 meeting, coinciding with his eighth birthday. Police Chief Kevin Legate presented Zeus with gift-wrapped dog treats on behalf of the department.
Zeus, who entered active duty in November 2019 at age 1.5, is now eight years old. His achievements include critical evidence recovery in a major stabbing investigation and the seizure of more than $170,000 in illicit currency in 2023 — an accomplishment that contributed to his handler, Officer Jake Taylor, being named the Galesburg Area Crime Stoppers Officer of the Year.
Zeus was certified in narcotics detection, evidence recovery, and handler protection throughout his career.
The proclamation expressed “profound gratitude” to Zeus and noted that he “transitions from a fearless protector to a well-earned life of rest and retirement within the Taylor home.”
As is common practice for retiring police canines, Zeus was donated to his handler, Officer Jake Taylor, to live as a family pet.
Read the full proclamation: Click here.