“Deputy Oliver Finds Purpose with New K-9 Ragnar After Loss of Graffit”

Jefferson County Deputy Zachary Oliver of Jefferson County, Colorado, recently welcomed a new K-9 partner into his life. The bond between Oliver and his new K-9, Ragnar, is still fresh, but it has given Oliver a renewed sense of purpose. This newfound purpose comes after the tragic loss of Oliver’s previous K-9 partner, Graffit, who was shot and killed while apprehending a suspect.

Oliver reflects on the sacrifice that Graffit made, stating, “He did his job, he loved his job, he did it well. And it just helps me heal, knowing that he died with a purpose.” Graffit’s death has had a profound impact on Oliver, as well as his family and the entire sheriff’s office. His children attended Graffit’s K-9 funeral and have pictures of him on their walls, recognizing that he was more than just a pet.

After the loss of Graffit, Oliver wasn’t sure what the future would hold without his partner. However, being a K-9 handler has always been his passion, and he couldn’t imagine doing anything else. With the support of the community, Oliver was able to obtain a new K-9 partner in Ragnar. The community donated enough to cover the cost of two new K-9s, as well as ballistic vests for them.

Oliver and Ragnar trained together for four weeks at a facility in California, strengthening their bond. Now back in Colorado, Ragnar has been making friends everywhere he goes. Both Ragnar and another K-9, Rico, will continue training for another 10 to 12 weeks before earning their certification for patrol work.

Oliver understands that he can never replace Graffit, but he is determined to live up to Graffit’s expectations with Ragnar. The loss of Graffit was devastating, but thanks to the support of the community and his new K-9 partner, Oliver has found a renewed sense of purpose and is ready to continue serving and protecting his community..