K9 Shield, former partner of the late Lt. Craig Lehner, has died

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WKBW) — The Buffalo Police Department says K9 Shield, once a partner of the late Lt. Craig Lehner, has died.

Shield served the city of Buffalo from 2016 until his retirement in 2022. He was 11 years old.

The beloved K9 began his career with his handler and partner, Lt. Craig Lehner. The two men worked together for more than a year before Lt. Lehner’s death.

Buffalo Police Department

“Shield has been a tremendous K9 for the Buffalo Police Department and the City of Buffalo,” said Commissioner Joseph Gramaglia. “I had the opportunity to be with Shield on calls and he was known throughout the department as one of the best. This was largely due to the great partnership between Shield and his handlers, Craig and Matt. Shield was very special and we will miss him.

When Lt. Lehner died, Officer Matthew Richards partnered with Shield for the next five years until his retirement.

Buffalo Police Department

“We call them ‘working’ dogs – they’re so much more than that,” Officer Matthew Richards said. These dogs are their owners’ partners and protectors, and we are theirs. The love of “working” with these dogs is endless and tireless. As a K9 handler with a “working” dog, there is no work, just play. Time spent together creates a bond that cannot be broken. It was my honor and privilege to continue the training of Shield. After the tragic loss of Lt. Craig Lehner, I will miss Shield as his passing left a huge void in my family’s hearts. I know one thing is for sure, he will be well taken care of where he is now. the Buffalo Police Department, the Lehner family and the Shields family for entrusting me with this great responsibility Shield, this is not goodbye, but rather see you later buddy.