West Virginia Troopers

K-9 Memorial

The West Virginia State Police proudly recognizes the courage, loyalty, and service of our K-9 partners. These remarkable dogs stood faithfully beside their handlers, protecting our communities and saving lives.

“Gone but never forgotten—our K-9 partners remain in our hearts and in our history.”

Our fallen K-9s were more than working dogs—they were family. They served with unwavering devotion, often placing themselves in harm’s way to safeguard the citizens of West Virginia and the troopers they accompanied. Their keen instincts, unmatched determination, and unconditional loyalty left a lasting impact on our department.

Though their watch has ended, their legacy continues. Each of our fallen K-9 partners will forever be remembered for their bravery, sacrifice, and the bond they shared with their handlers. We honor them not only as guardians of our state, but as true heroes.

Honoring Our Fallen K-9 Partners.

In loving Memory

2024

K-9 Lucky

Trooper Timothy Perry
West Virginia State Police

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Lucky

2024

West Virginia State Police

K-9 Lucky, a Belgian Malinois, faithfully served the West Virginia State Police for more than a decade. Born in Europe and brought to the United States as a young dog, Lucky began his service under Trooper Derek Walker, later worked alongside Trooper Nick Campbell, and completed his distinguished career with Trooper Timothy Perry.
From his earliest days in training, Lucky stood apart. He was all business—focused, driven, and relentless. While other dogs might enjoy a game of fetch, Lucky’s passion was his work. His specialty was narcotics detection, and his alerts were unmistakable: precise, immediate, and unwavering. Over the years, Lucky was responsible for countless seizures, including one of his largest discoveries—more than 4,000 fentanyl pills—helping to keep dangerous drugs off West Virginia’s streets.
Known throughout the ranks as a “bite dog,” Lucky earned a reputation during training for his iron grip on the bite suit. Once locked in, he refused to release until he decided the job was done. This determination, combined with his keen instincts, made him both respected and admired by his fellow troopers.
Though fierce in the field, Lucky showed a softer side at home. He was not food-driven, but he loved his Kong toy above all else, and when he wanted affection, he would gently cross his paws over his handler’s arm as if to ask for attention. His one true canine companion was Taya, Trooper Perry’s husky, with whom he shared a quiet bond.
In 2024, after a long and faithful career, Lucky lost his battle with cancer. He was laid to rest with honor, wrapped in a West Virginia state flag and buried in Trooper Perry’s yard, near his loyal companion Taya. His gravesite is marked with stones and a cross, a fitting tribute to a partner who gave his all.
The “Lucky the Legend” story is one of service, loyalty, and courage. To his handlers, he was more than a partner—he was family. To the State Police, he remains a legend. And to the people of West Virginia, he stands as a reminder of the sacrifices made, not just by troopers, but by the four-legged guardians who serve beside them.

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