Viking, retired Investigative Service Unit K‑9

Viking, a retired Investigative Service Unit K-9, passed away Nov. 20, 2024.

The K-9 began his service to CDCR in June 2010, assigned to Officer R. Hanson at the Substance Abuse Treatment Facility (SATF) and State Prison at Corcoran.

Viking served the State of California until he retired Feb. 19, 2016.

“ISU Officer Hanson and K-9 Officer Viking made a major impact at SATF, with tremendous positive results in searching and discovering illicit contraband. They also assisted other institutions across the California. They are credited with finding drugs as well as hundreds of cell phones,” according to a statement issued by SATF. “K-9 Officer Viking was a highly respected partner by all staff at SATF as well as throughout the state. He will be missed by all. Our deepest condolences are extended to the Hanson family and friends as they mourn the loss of their loved one.”

The statement ends with “K-9 Officer Viking, Badge No. 81496, born June 2008, End of Watch Nov. 20, 2024.”

K-9 Viking: A profile of service

A decade ago, Inside CDCR profiled Officer Hanson and Viking.

In February 2014, Officer Hanson and K-9 Viking conducted 11 search operations spanning 32 hours of actual search time. The team found cell phones, phone chargers, marijuana, heroin, methamphetamine, and tobacco.

Viking is one of seven dogs donated to CDCR. Viking is trained to detect cell phones as well as narcotics and tobacco. In addition, Hanson and Viking participate in Red Ribbon Week each year, visiting schools in the community.

Read more tributes to staff and retirees who have passed away.

Learn more about CDCR’s K-9 programs.

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