“Second to None”

Bella makes a turn toward the camera during her retirment ceremony

Bella Receives Accolades at Retirement ceremony

In a ceremony honoring her years of service to the community, K9 Officer Bella was officially recognized for her contributions to the Police Department during the regular meeting of the Newaygo City Council on Monday January 13th. Newaygo Police Chief Georgia Andres read from a letter commemorating Bella’s retirement.

“As our first K9 Officer canine, you have served our citizens and community to the best of your ability and your 6 years of dedication to us is appreciated. Bella, we appreciate your dedication to the mission. Your ability as a K9 was second to none.
“I would like to also commend you for your work with Officer Nelson and because of you we always felt a little safer. Your position at Newaygo Police Department was historical and we appreciate your service.
“For your efforts in improving department services and operations, you are hereby retired from service to your community. You are retired with honor as declared by policy.
“Thank you and please enjoy your retirement with the Nelson family where you will take on your retirement in Bella Fashion, protecting one family instead of several.
“Congratulations on a job well done.”

Chief Andres also presented K9 handler Troy Nelson with a letter of merit for his work with the retiring Bella.
“Your community outreach through your position of K9 handler was very much appreciated by the city of Newaygo and your fellow police officers. Your care and love for K9 Bella was noticed by us all. The time and effort you took to educate our citizens and your fellow staff regarding a working K9 was appreciated. We appreciate your years of service to the first K9 program in the city of Newaygo history.
”I would like to also commend you for your work with the K9 regional training group. This takes tremendous amount of time and energy to be able to pass all standards in K9 law enforcement. Volunteering for this added responsibility of your time and knowledge to the team shows again how you care for our community and our department.”

Chief Georgia Andres and K9 Handler Troy Nelson flank retirng officer Bella who is busy hanging on to her toy.