Boone’s legacy: Public memorializing K-9 with contributions to FRPD program

Sgt. Bryan Courtney and Boone / Courtesy photo

FRONT ROYAL – On Monday, March 5, the Front Royal Police Department lost a beloved, valuable member of its team when K-9 Boone, died two days past his 12th birthday, following a short illness.

Boone came to the FRPD in 2007, following his graduation from the U.S. Homeland Security and Border Protection Canine School. He was partnered with Sgt. Bryan Courtney, and the two became the department’s first K-9 narcotics team.

Since Boone’s death, area residents have reached out, expressing interest in making a donation in his memory. Sgt. Courtney said such tributes would be fitting and would help the station staff two K-9 officers.

All donations will be used towards the purchase of a new K-9, according to a press release from the Front Royal Police Foundation.

“In 2018, the board had already been especially focused on helping the department purchase a new K-9 along with training for the handler, a kennel and any other equipment needed for the K-9 as well as other equipment for the newly-built Front Royal Police Department,” the release states.

Anyone wishing to make a contribution in memory of K-9 Boone may mail a check, with “K-9 fund” designated, to:

Front Royal Police Department
Attn: Front Royal Police Foundation
23 E. Jackson St.
Front Royal, VA 22630

The board members of the foundation stated in the release, “Despite the loss of Boone, the Foundation will work tirelessly to ensure that the FRPD has the necessary funds to maintain a viable, effective K-9 program…the board members feel that the most meaningful way to honor the life and service of Boone is to ensure that K-9 officers are ongoing, contributing members of the Front Royal Police Department.”

Chief of Police Kahle Magalis said another K-9 was already scheduled to arrive in early summer, with the intention of letting Boone enjoy his well-earned retirement.