Star Monmouth K-9 Skye Retires

FREEHOLD, NJ — After nearly a 10-year career, K-9 Skye, of the Monmouth County Sheriff's Office, will enjoy a well deserved retirement.

On Friday Dec. 15, Sheriff Shaun Golden and the Monmouth County Sheriff’s Office celebrated Skye and partner Sgt. Kurt Kroeper’s years of work, with a "walkout" on the trail to retirement.

“Skye had an exceptional career and made a great impact in the fight against crime in Monmouth County and beyond,” said Golden.

In addition to her commitment to combatting crime, Skye participated in "record-breaking" K-9 demonstrations in Monmouth County.

"She had her picture taken with more people than Santa and no doubt has melted many hearts," the sheriff's office said.

Kroeper and Skye were called into service more than 1,000 times. Through tracking and trailing, the team assisted the sheriff’s office and local police departments in apprehending criminals and locating missing persons, such as children and individuals with Alzheimer’s disease.

Skye came from Southern Pride Bloodhounds in Northern New Jersey, was trained by bloodhound instructors at the Ocean County Sheriff’s Office, and earned national certification by the Police Bloodhound Association in North Carolina.

But now Skye has a chance to relax a bit, Kroeper said.

“Skye gave her best to Monmouth County and I’m grateful to the Monmouth County Sheriff’s Office for providing me and Skye with this great opportunity,” said Kroeper.

“She was an outstanding partner and member of our K-9 Unit. I look forward to Skye living out the rest of her years with me and enjoying long walks while watching the sun rise and set.”