GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) — Grand Rapids Police Department K-9 Eli is retiring after eight years of service and multiple arrests, the department announced Thursday.
Four years ago, Eli and his handler Sgt. Justin Kribs responded to a standoff on Leonard Street near Walker Avenue in Grand Rapids. The K-9 was sent into a home where a man had fired shots and wielded a knife. That’s where he was stabbed eight times, including two wounds that punctured his lung. Eli did not back down, GRPD said, but Kribs called him back immediately. The officer picked the K-9 up, put him in his cruiser and rushed to the animal hospital.
GRPD: Standoff suspect arrested after stabbing police dog
He was released three days later with bandages and stitches. GRPD officers and personnel greeted him as he was released and then-Chief Eric Winstrom expressed thanks to the veterinarians at the emergency hospital, calling it “truly a miracle” that they were able to save Eli. The man who stabbed him was arrested and charged. Eli was awarded the Combat Star for his actions during the incident, GRPD said.
Now, Eli will enjoy retirement with Kribs and his family…