Buffalo Police Mourn Loss of K9 Shield

BUFFALO, NY — The Buffalo Police Department announced the sad news of the death of one of their beloved K9s at the age of 11.

K9 Shield had served the city of Buffalo from 2016 until 2022 when he retired. Shield began his career with his master, the late Lt. Craig Lehner. Lt. Lehner worked with Shield for a year before his tragic passing.

Taking over in Lieutenant Lehner’s absence, Officer Matthew Richards became K9 Shield’s new partner for the next 5 years before retiring to live out his golden years with Officer Richard’s family.

Police officer Matthew Richards said: “We call them ‘working’ dogs – they are so much more than that. These dogs are their master’s 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 has been 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 has left a huge void in the hearts of my family. I know one thing is for sure, he will be well taken care of where he is right now. Thank you to the Buffalo Police Department, the Lehner family, and the Shields family for entrusting me with this great responsibility. Shield, it’s not goodbye, but rather see you later buddy.

Commissioner Joseph A. Gramaglia said, “Shield was a tremendous K9 for the Buffalo Police Department and the City of Buffalo. I had the opportunity to be around Shield during calls and he was well known throughout the department as one of the best. Largely due to the great partnership between Shield and his handlers, Craig and Matt Shield were very special and will be missed. We are grateful for his service to our community.

Mayor Byron W. Brown said, “The passing of K9 Shield is not only a loss to our police department but also to our city and the residents he protected for 6 years. Shield was an important member of the Buffalo Police Department who left his paw prints on all those he served and kept safe. My prayers go out to the Buffalo Police K9 Unit.”

Shield will be greatly missed by the Buffalo Police Department and the community.