Change for K-9 Kora Holds True for Partner

Routines are a big part of what we all do in our lives, particularly when it comes to work. For the last nine years West Hartford Police Officer Eric Rocheleau and his partner K-9 Kora, worked in tandem doing what police do - fighting crime and keeping people safe from harm.

Kora is retiring from duty and as much as it will affect her life, the working partnership ends for Rocheleau too. The two have been together for nine years, half of 18-year veteran Rocheleau's career. 

"It's a hard pill to swallow," said Rocheleau. "I'm going to miss having her by my side. It's been such a unique working relationship. One that came with so many rewards."

During one call Kora located two armed men suspected of robbing a Bloomfield McDonald's. Kora found the men hiding in the woods, and caught one by the arm. She was punched repeatedly in the head, and her teeth were broken as a result. Kora received a merit award for her resolve that day because she never let go.

Rocheleau felt grateful to Kora on many occaisions. A suspect became violent with Rocheleau and a physical fight ensued between the two. Kora's instinct and training kicked in instantaneously, protecting him from a worse injury.   

During this partnership Rocheleau was in charge of the department's K-9 training, which involved determining which excercises the animals would work on and scheduling the activities. The training follows Schutzhund methods that teach tracking, retrieval, jumping, and protection. As the regimen progresses and the animal meets competancy requirements, they earn various degrees of advanced titles. 

Kora is the fourth K-9 dog to retire from West Hartford Police Department. Reign, another K-9 on staff at the department, (since 2006), will be joined by a second German Shepherd as soon as one is located. Some animals come from Czech Republic or within the states and the search is on.

Officer Officer Tom Lazure has been named the new K-9 handler for department. A mass email was sent out department-wide asking those interested in becoming a handler to submit a letter of application for the position.

Lazure was quick to vie for the job, saying, "I'm a well-rounded individual and I really enjoy talking to people as much as dealing with the serious nature to the job. Having a canine brings out the chat in people, and I'm looking forward to that aspect of the job." 

Lazure will attend eight weeks of basic handler training himself in preparation for his new role. Lazure has spent time with Rocheleau and Kora during her last days on the job.

"It's been a great assignment, and it's sad to see that part of the working relationship is ending," said Rocheleau. The good news is that Kora is retiring to pedestrian life and will be right at home in the Rocheleau's family. "I'm going to keep my eye on her, because she'll be at the door ready to leave when I do," predicted Rocheleau. 

Friday's retirement ceremony at West Hartford Police Department put Kora in the spotlight when a large turnout of family and friends came to say good-bye and thank you for doing a terrific job. Kora indeed had her day.