Decorated police K-9 ‘Ringo’ laid to rest

A retired El Paso Police Department drug-sniffing dog has been laid to rest after its passing.

Narcotic K-9, Ringo served the police department and his partner – Officer Vargas – for more than ten years, police said.

“Ringo was always excited to go to work,” Officer Vargas said, “He was the greatest work partner anybody could have, and was worth his weight in gold.”

Ringo and Vargas were recognized as Texas Narcotic Officer Association’s “Officer of the year,” were members of the Unit of the Year Award, and received the Meritorious Service Award during their career together, police added.

Ringo was instrumental in the seizure of nearly 33,000 pounds of marijuana, nearly 150 pounds of cocaine, nearly nine pounds of heroin, 46 pounds of methamphetamine, and more than $1.4 million in illegal drug proceeds.

During Red Ribbon Week and career days, Ringo and Officer Vargas could be found at area schools, where they discussed the dangers of drugs and motivated children to pursue careers in law enforcement.

Ringo was retired in August 2016, but continued his partnership with Officer Vargas who cared for him until his passing.