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# SMPD retires a brave canine
- URL: https://www.smdp.com/smpd-retires-a-brave-canine/
- Published: 2002-08-31T15:00:00.000Z
- Updated: 2026-10-23T00:42:43.000Z
- Author: Andrew Fixmer
- Tags: Crime, Santa Monica, #archive-import

After nearly a decade of service, the Santa Monica Police Department is retiring one of it most distinguished canines.

K9 Roy — a Belgian Malinois born in the Netherlands on April 10, 1990 — was officially retired from active duty earlier this month. His partner, SMPD Officer Mike Von Achen, purchased the dog from the city for $1, so K9 Roy can live out his days with his long-time partner and his family.

“He enjoys his walks on the beach, plenty of extra attention from Mike and his wife, Allison, and much deserved sleep,” said Lt. Frank Fabrega, a SMPD spokesman, in a prepared statement.

The dog has helped officers capture many suspects in the field and prevent them from being injured while attempting to subdue culprits.

He also participated in the well-publicized attempted murder of several police officers that occurred at the Santa Monica Pier on July 4, 2000.

Throughout K9 Roy’s illustrious career, he has been called out from his home to assist officers while off duty.

In one incident, K9 Roy was called out from his home to help in the apprehension of bank robbery suspects who were hiding in a residential neighborhood after leading police on a high-speed pursuit.

“Without the use of Roy’s nose, the second suspect would not likely have been found,” Fabrega said.

K9 Roy will now chase squirrels instead of bad guys.

*Originally published in the Santa Monica Daily Press print edition on August 31, 2002.* [Read the original PDF.](https://s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/smdp%5Fbackissues/083102.pdf?ref=smdp.com)