After many years of loyal service, RPD K-9 Officer Hugo retired on Sept. 30, 2025
After six years of dedicated service, police dog Hugo is exchanging patrols for playtime. The Belgian Malinois just retired from the Raleigh Police Department’s K-9 unit.
Hugo was trained by the U.S. Army in patrol and explosive detection. He was certified by the United States Police Canine Association. In January 2019, the Raleigh Police Department adopted Hugo and assigned him to Senior Officer David Green.
Hugo will be remembered for his role in the integration of K-9 units with Raleigh’s special enforcement teams. He conducted numerous tactical operations with various agencies, including RPD's selective enforcement, fugitive and gang suppression units, the FBI, and the U.S. Marshal's tactical operations team. He also participated in numerous field operation patrol missions.
Hugo served the Raleigh community with distinction, earning positive commendations four times with his dog team. Hugo regularly conducted advanced security for the Carolina Hurricanes, N.C. State Athletics, and LiveNation Music. As a member of the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation's All-Hazard Team, Hugo participated in security sweeps for high-profile events including the U.S. Open, the North Carolina State Fair, and numerous political events.
Now 10 years old, Hugo will enjoy retired life under the love and care of his handler.
The City Council on Tuesday passed a resolution related to transferring ownership of Hugo from the City to Senior Officer Green.
Thank you, K-9 Hugo, for a job well done.
Hugo with handler Officer Green
