Tax ID# 82-0993900
Stockton PD K-9 Officers 5/13/17 @ Weber Point
2026 K9 Trials - San Joaquin County Sheriff's Department
Happy Retirement
Thank You For Your Service, K9 Officer Rango
The San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Office proudly announces the retirement of K-9 Rango, an exceptional partner who faithfully served our community since 2022. K-9 Rango’s retirement comes as the result of his handler’s promotion into a supervisory role, closing an outstanding chapter of service in 2026. During his career, Rango made a lasting impact on the safety of San Joaquin County, protecting not only his handler, but also deputies across the team and the citizens we serve.
Known for not being one to be tango’d with, K-9 Rango was instrumental in the seizure of more than 80 pounds of methamphetamine, nearly 40 pounds of fentanyl, and over $100,000 in U.S. currency. Beyond his incredible detection abilities, Rango was deployed more than 270 times, assisting with building searches, tracking, vehicle clears, non-bite apprehensions, and suspect engagements.
K-9 Rango exemplified what it means to be a dedicated law enforcement partner—brave, dependable, and unwavering in his mission to protect his deputy and this community. We are deeply grateful for his service and sacrifices, and we wish K-9 Rango a well-earned and happy retirement with his two-legged family.
K9 Officer Maximus
EOW - March 9, 2026
K9 Officer Lazlo
EOW - May 3, 2026
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The San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Office is saddened to announce the passing of retired K-9 Maximus. End of Watch: March 9, 2026.
Max began his service with our office in 2013, working alongside his handler as a loyal partner dedicated to protecting the people of San Joaquin County. Throughout his career, he helped keep deputies and our community safe.
After years of service, Max enjoyed a well-earned retirement surrounded by the family who loved him. He was laid to rest last night, surrounded by his handler and family.
Good boy, Max. Good boy.
The Stockton Police Department K9 Unit is mourning the loss of retired police dog Lazlo, who passed away during the morning hours of May 3, 2026.
According to the department, Lazlo was 12 years old, and his medical condition progressed rapidly, leaving his handler, Officer Ross, and family unprepared for the sudden loss.
Lazlo faithfully served the streets of Stockton from 2015 through 2023. During his years with the department, he worked patrol assignments and was also certified as a SWAT K9. Officials say Lazlo was involved in 45 apprehensions and numerous suspect surrenders throughout his career.
The department described Lazlo as a hardworking and loyal partner who loved being on duty and interacting with the community. Following his retirement, Lazlo spent the last three years enjoying life with his family.
Those who worked alongside Lazlo say he leaves behind lasting memories and a legacy of service to the Stockton community.