06/03/2019 - Baxter_Passing aTigard Police Department
Media Release
• ' 13125 SW Hall Boulevard I Tigard,Oregon 97223 1 www.tigard-or.gov/police
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE I June 3, 2019
Contact:
Stefanie Kouremetis, Community Engagement Program Coordinator
Tigard Police Department
Phone: 503-718-2814
Email: Stefanie.Kouremetis@tigard-or.gov
Retired Tigard Police K-9 Baxter Passes Away
It is with great sorrow that we announce the passing of retired Tigard Police K-9
Baxter. He died peacefully at 10:00am this morning with his favorite Kong toy still in
his mouth, surrounded by loved ones. Baxter served Tigard Police faithfully for eight
years and transitioned to a beloved pet with his handler Sergeant Odam and his
family.
Baxter served with distinction. He worked with Officer Jackson from 2007-2010, and
then with Sgt. Odam from 2010 until retiring in July of 2016. During his tenure, he
was directly responsible for over 100 captures and he assisted with locating over 100
more. He also tracked for several missing persons, as well as located numerous articles
of evidence.
Baxter was a "very active partner - on his feet all the time." For his ten-hour shift, "he
was always on." When Sgt. Odam responded to a call on the radio and spoke into the
microphone, Baxter would start to "bellow," announcing to all of the officers on duty
that he was ready for work. "That's how much of a drive he had."
When he retired, Baxter readily transitioned to life as a "normal house dog" at the
Odam residence. He may never have been a cuddler or let people pet his tummy, but
he loved playing with the kids and was fully involved in whatever they were doing.
Throughout his twelve years with us, he touched many people and lived a meaningful
life as a working dog and family pet. We will always consider him part of our family
and grieve his passing.
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Tigard Police Department
Media Release
13125 SW Hall Boulevard Tigard, Oregon 97223 www.tigard-or.gov/police
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