In April, Doraville officer Tryko was assisting the U.S. Marshals Service in apprehending a suspect when that person cut him with a knife. Tryko underwent surgery to repair the wound and received between 25 and 30 stitches following the incident.
He made a full recovery and was able to return to work in about a month. Now, the 12-year-old German Shepherd is receiving the Paw of Courage award by the American Kennel Club for his service.
The award is given to show appreciation for the many sacrifices that working dogs make while serving and specifically recognizes those who have been injured or killed in the line of duty.
Tryko has worked with the Doraville Police department since 2006 and is now in his tenth year of service. Over his career, he's been responsible for about 700 suspect apprehensions and 600 drug seizures, recovering nearly $1 million-worth of drug money. Tryko was also key in tracking, finding and helping apprehend a suspect who police say shot two DeKalb County Police officers.
According to the Doraville Police Department, the K-9 officer is "considered a legend" and is a "one-of-a-kind and truly special police dog."
Tryko and his partner Lt. Jason Deyette are set to receive the award during a ceremony at 1 p.m. Sept. 10 at 6251 Peachtree Industrial Blvd.
The event, which coincides with the Pawstand's First Anniversary Pawty, is open to the public. In addition, the celebration will help raise money for the PAWlice Fund for protective K-9 ballistic vests.
(11Alive - Sept 10, 2016)
