Copyright © 2003 NLThomas
All Rights Reserved

TAHLEQUAH, OK - The Cherokee Nation Marshal Service invested in a four-legged officer nearly a year ago, and the investment has certain paid off. Ringo, a Belgiun Shepherd, has earned a permanent spot on the force and in the Marshal's hearts.

"He's a hard working dog," said L.D. Drywater, liaison Marshal. "He seems to really have his heart in his work."

Ringo is not only an asset to the Cherokee Nation Marshal Service, but all law enforcement agencies that are cross-deputized with the Cherokee Nation Marshals. Ringo and Marshal Brett Mull make frequent trips in the Cherokee Nation's fourteen county jurisdictional area to assist area police departments with searches for suspects and searches for illegal drugs.

"When the dog is there, we have the upper hand," said Pryor Police Sgt. Shawn Cummings. "He helps to make the situation a little safer for the officer."

Ringo assisted the Pryor Police Department on five cases in 2002, which resulted in five arrests.

"We try to include him as much as we can," Cummings said. "He's a great asset."

Ringo has been on active duty with the Cherokee Nation Marshal Service since April 2002. Since that time, Ringo has recovered approximately $2800 worth of marijuana, $1600 in methamphetamines, $500 in ecstasy, $1700 in guns, $6400 cash, and his work has lead to 33 arrests on drug charges according to Marshal Mull.

"He's very impressive," Drywater said.