The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) proudly recognized the newest members of its law enforcement K9 program during a graduation ceremony held November 10 at the Spring Valley Education Center. The ceremony celebrated the accomplishments of three highly trained K9 teams representing the ODNR Divisions of Parks and Watercraft and Wildlife. These new teams will play a vital role in protecting Ohio's natural resources, supporting search and rescue efforts, and strengthening community engagement across the state.
"ODNR's K9 program reflects our commitment to providing officers with the tools they need to keep people safe and protect Ohio's incredible natural spaces," said ODNR Director Mary Mertz. "These K9 teams bring specialized skills, unmatched dedication, and a deep bond with their handlers. We are proud to welcome them into the ODNR family and grateful for the important work they will do."
Division of Parks & Watercraft Graduate Team
Natural Resources Officer (NRO) D'Angelo Thigpen, stationed out of Rocky Fork State Park and serving the Southwest Unit C region, graduated alongside his new partner, K9 Frank, a male chocolate Labrador Retriever. NRO Thigpen joined ODNR in 2020 and was selected as a K9 handler in March 2026.
K9 Frank was purchased from Tar Heel K9 in Sanford, North Carolina, thanks to generous donations from Friends of Ohio K9 and Little Blessings. Additional K9 equipment, including collars, leashes, harnesses, and first aid supplies, was provided through a donation from AMVETS Post 61 to Friends of Ohio K9.
"These K9 teams provide invaluable support in search operations, evidence recovery, and public outreach," said Division of Parks and Watercraft Chief Glen Cobb. "There is nothing more important to our officers than serving the public with professionalism, preparedness, and heart. We're proud of Officer Thigpen and K9 Frank and excited to see the impact they will make across Ohio's state parks and waterways."
Division of Wildlife Graduate Teams
State Wildlife Officer Michele Butler, assigned to Erie County, graduated with K9 River, a male black Labrador Retriever purchased from Five T K9 Enterprises. Butler joined ODNR in 2018 and began field service in 2019.
State Wildlife Officer Gus Kiebel, currently assigned to Adams County, graduated with K9 Gar, a male yellow Labrador Retriever purchased through support from the Safari Club International Southwest Ohio Chapter and the Karr‑Aanestad K9 Foundation Fund. Officer Kiebel has served Ohio's wildlife community since 2012.
"K9 River and K9 Gar will be extraordinary assets to wildlife officers conducting investigations, recovering evidence, and strengthening wildlife protection across Ohio," said Division of Wildlife Chief Kendra Wecker. "Our K9 program is a powerful example of how dedication, training, and strong partnerships come together to enhance the work we do every day."
The ODNR K9 program continues to expand its capabilities and strengthen the agency's presence across Ohio's outdoor spaces. These specially trained teams provide critical support through tracking, evidence detection, public outreach, and education.
"We are grateful to all the partners, donors, and community supporters who helped make these new K9 teams possible," Mertz added. "Their contributions not only enhance officer safety and effectiveness—they help protect Ohio's natural resources for generations to come."
Across Ohio's state parks, forests, waterways, and wildlife areas, specially trained K9 officers play a vital role in protecting visitors and conserving natural resources. ODNR's K9 teams assist in search and rescue missions, locate missing persons, support drug-related investigations, and respond to emergencies in diverse environments, from campgrounds and lakes to forests and trail systems. For more information about ODNR law enforcement programs and K9 initiatives, visit ohiodnr.gov.
ODNR ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR website at ohiodnr.gov.
The mission of the Division of Wildlife is to conserve and improve fish and wildlife resources and their habitats for sustainable use and appreciation by all. Visit wildohio.gov to find out more.
Recognized as the No. 1 state park system in America with the 2025 National Gold Medal Award for Excellence in Park and Recreation Management, the ODNR Division of Parks and Watercraft provides exceptional outdoor recreation and boating opportunities by balancing outstanding customer service, education, and conservation of Ohio's 76 state parks and waterways.