OLD ORCHARD BEACH — The Old Orchard Beach Police Department plans to have a new four-legged member on board next year.

In June, Gunther, the department’s beloved K-9, retired after nine years of service. The German Shepherd had been assigned to Police Detective Christ St. Pierre, and still lives with St. Pierre and his family.

The town had been exploring the purchase of a new K-9 and on Tuesday, the Town Council approved spending of $7,500 on a new K-9, with money coming from a Community Development Block Grant Safe Neighborhoods Grant.

In its search for a replacement, the town received three different quotes for a new dog, according to town officials.

The quotes were reviewed by St. Pierre, who recommended the town purchase a dog from Robby Farms in Florida based on the facility’s reputation and advice from other dog handlers.

A German shepherd from Belgium named Roxo has been chosen, and now that the purchase has been approved, he is expected to arrive in Maine at the end of the month.

Roxo will begin his training upon arrival, and the Police Department anticipates he will be certified and ready for patrol by spring.

He will be trained as a dual-purpose dog, and will be able to provide assistance in the area of search and rescue as well as with protection and narcotic detention. 

— Staff Writer Liz Gotthelf can be contacted at 282-1535, ext. 325 or egotthelf@journaltribune.com.