HOUGHTON LAKE – The Michigan State Police (MSP) Houghton Lake Post honored the retirement of K9 Loki, who joined the force in 2017.
Loki, handled by Trooper Adam Whited, graduated from the 51st MSP Canine School and has served the region for eight years. The pair responded to nearly 1,000 calls for service, rescuing lost individuals and assisting in the apprehension of criminal suspects.
Notable cases include:
- In 2022, Loki helped locate a missing 80-year-old hunter in Lovells Township, Crawford County.
- In 2023, he tracked a missing 3-year-old for nearly three miles through wooded terrain in Roscommon County. The child was found safe and returned to her parents.
Police dogs like Loki undergo rigorous training at the MSP Canine School. The program covers obedience, scent detection, tracking, building searches, and suspect apprehension. Dogs are trained to detect narcotics, explosives, and human scent, while also learning to work under high-stress situations. The process takes several months and requires both physical endurance and strong teamwork between the handler and the dog.
“The bond between a handler and their K9 partner is unlike any other—built on trust, loyalty, and unwavering dedication,” MSP Lt. Ashley Miller said in a statement. “Loki, you have been an exemplary member of the Michigan State Police. We thank you for your service and wish you a well deserved, restful retirement.”
A retirement ceremony was held July 30. To see a montage of comments celebrating the retirements of Loki and Whited, visit:
