The Colorado Division of Fire Prevention and Control (DFPC), under the Colorado Department of Public Safety, is marking a significant transition in its ranks with the retirement of one of its esteemed members. K9 ROTC, a veteran fire investigations dog, has officially hung up his leash after five years of commendable service, as reported by the Colorado Governor's Office. October 8 has been proclaimed by Governor Jared Polis as ROTC Retirement Day in honor of the canine's contributions that helped investigate over 180 fires.
ROTC's retirement is not just an end to a distinguished chapter but also the beginning of another as the DFPC welcomes a new, vigorously trained Accelerant Detection Canine, Waffle. As obtained by the Colorado Governor's Office, Governor Polis expressed gratitude toward ROTC, "Congratulations to ROTC on its 5 years of dedicated service to the state of Colorado. During his service, ROTC’s laser-trained nose helped investigate more than 180 fires, collecting evidence and holding arsonists accountable, with an accuracy rate of 94.2%." ROTC's sharp instincts and unyielding loyalty have set a high bar for his successor.
While ROTC enjoys a peaceful retirement filled with the joys of long naps and endless tummy rubs, the DFPC is gearing up for the future with K9 Waffle. Waffle has completed intense training with the U.S. Department of Justice Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) National Canine Division's Accelerant Detection Canine (ADC) program. ATF Special Agent in Charge Brent Beavers described the program as critical to ATF’s mission of combating violent crime and supporting our local law enforcement partners, which significantly enhances public safety for all.
The importance of the ADC program has been underscored by the limited number of Canine teams it produces currently, only about 50 nationwide, which magnifies the significance of Waffle's placement in Colorado. According to DFPC Director Mike Morgan, "We are deeply grateful for ROTC’s years of service and excited to welcome Waffle into the DFPC family," as per the Colorado Governor's Office. Waffle is poised to continue the tradition of excellence in service to the community and protection of property and lives.
