K9 Drago is now on the force

Monday, March 13, 2023 2:32 pm

The Winneshiek County Sheriff’s Office is welcoming the newest K9 member of our team while saying goodbye to another.

The Winneshiek County Sheriff’s Office is welcoming the newest K9 member of our team while saying goodbye to another.


K9 Drago joins the Winneshiek County Sheriff’s Office as a highly trained and experienced multi-functional (otherwise properly referred to as “dual purpose”) law enforcement service dog. Drago, a three-year-old German Shephard, is proficient in drug detection, tracking, and apprehension.


Drago’s handler will be Deputy Logan Hopp.


Drago has replaced K9 Rooster, as it had become apparent that Rooster was not able to fulfill the requirements for which he was acquired. Rooster had significant issues with socialization, temperament, and anxiety, making him unfit for his duties with the Winneshiek County Sheriff’s Office. Rooster was returned to his original home/trainer and is being very well cared for. We were able to work out an agreement with our trainer to trade for Drago at no additional costs to Winneshiek County.


Sheriff Dan Marx says, “Although this was an extremely difficult decision that we did not take lightly, it was ultimately decided that it was not fair to the people of Winneshiek County or Rooster to keep him in service. We owe it to our citizens to ensure that we are providing a top tier K9 service that excels in all aspects of law enforcement service work.”


Deputy/Handler Hopp states, “I thank the people of Winneshiek County for their continued faithful and generous support we have been given over the years. I am excited to have Drago as my new partner. We will continue to strive for excellence in service and provide Winneshiek County with a top-of-the-line K9 program.”