York County, September 5, 2025
News Summary
York County has honored the retirement of two beloved K-9 officers, Loki and Buster. Loki, from the Sheriff’s Department, played a significant role in drug enforcement during his six-year tenure. Buster, a pioneering treatment court facility dog, served for 12 years, providing comfort in various court settings. Both officers leave behind a legacy that highlights their contributions to law enforcement and the judicial system.
York County Celebrates Retirement of Two Esteemed K-9 Officers: Loki and Buster
York County has bid farewell to two beloved K-9 officers following their significant contributions to law enforcement and court proceedings. Loki, a K-9 officer from the York County Sheriff’s Department, is retiring after six years of dedicated service, while Buster, the first-ever treatment court facility dog in the U.S., has concluded a remarkable 12-year career.
Loki’s Milestone Contribution
The announcement of Loki’s retirement was made this past weekend. Since arriving in York County in 2019 from the Netherlands, Loki and his partner, Korey Goplin, have been pivotal in the fight against drug trafficking, effectively participating in hundreds of traffic stops. Through his efforts, Loki helped seize over 10,000 pounds of drugs and more than $6 million in drug-related cash. His outstanding performance culminated in national recognition in 2021 from the National Crime Enforcement Association, where he played a key role in the largest drug seizure (1,420 pounds) and drug money seizure ($1.6 million) in the country that year.
The York County Sheriff’s Office highlighted Loki’s significant impact, noting that he will be missed as he transitions into retirement, where he will enjoy a “well-earned life of rest and relaxation” with his family.
Buster’s Pioneering Role
Buster, a black Labrador Retriever, has also retired after a groundbreaking career that began in the York County Courthouse in 2013. As the first treatment court facility dog in the U.S., Buster played an instrumental role in providing a calming presence for participants in various treatment courts, including Drug, DUI, Mental Health, and Veterans’ Treatment Courts. Unlike earlier facility dogs primarily used to assist victims and witnesses, Buster’s role was unique and tailored to support individuals undergoing trial proceedings, enhancing their experience in what can often be a stressful environment.
According to York County probation officer Andrew Franz, who introduced the concept of a facility dog in treatment court, Buster significantly contributed to creating a more comforting atmosphere in the courthouse. Throughout his tenure, Buster was present at court hearings, probation appointments, and various community outreach events, favorably impacting many lives.
Buster underwent 18 months of training through Susquehanna Service Dogs, a nonprofit organization based in Harrisburg, further honing his skills with additional advanced training before being assigned to his team of handlers. Upon turning 14 years old this month, Buster will retire to live with the Wise family, who served as his handlers along with Andrew Franz and later Laura Westover. Buster’s retirement comes with news that a new certified facility dog has been approved to join the courthouse, and a second dog’s application is in process.
Legacy and Future Steps
The impact that Buster has left on the York County courtroom is described as immeasurable. His pioneering role inspired other jurisdictions, including Lancaster County, to integrate facility dogs into their systems, where SSD Hamlet has already joined their team.
The York County Sheriff’s Office (YSO) is proud of its active K-9 program, which has continuously demonstrated success. The retirements of both Loki and Buster mark significant milestones in the department’s history, reflecting both their service and the evolving role of K-9s within law enforcement and the judicial system.
In Summary
| Officer | Type | Years of Service | Main Contributions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Loki | K-9 Officer | 6 | Seized over 10,000 pounds of drugs and $6 million; National recognition for significant drug seizures. |
| Buster | Treatment Court Facility Dog | 12 | Provided support in Drug, DUI, Mental Health, and Veterans’ Courts; influenced the inclusion of facility dogs in trials. |
FAQ
What were Loki’s primary contributions during his tenure?
Over six years, Loki was involved in the seizure of over 10,000 pounds of drugs and $6 million in drug money, receiving national recognition for significant drug-related seizures.
What roles did Buster serve in the York County Courthouse?
Buster served as a treatment court facility dog, providing support and comfort to individuals in various treatment courts including Drug, DUI, Mental Health, and Veterans’ courts.
What advancements have been made following Buster’s retirement?
Following Buster’s impact, a new certified facility dog has been approved for the courthouse, with a second application in progress, indicating the ongoing commitment to integrating facility dogs in court settings.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Fox43: Buster Retires
- Wikipedia: K9 Unit
- WGAL: K9 Rino Dies
- Google Search: K9 Police Dogs
- Local21: K9 Dargo Retires
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Police Dog
- WGAL: Retired K-9 Zigi Dies
- Google News: K9 Dogs in Law Enforcement
Author: STAFF HERE ROCK HILL
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