An 8-year-old German Shepherd serving with the Nevada County Sheriff’s Office died Sunday morning following a sudden medical emergency, officials confirmed. K9 Riggs, who joined the department in 2024, passed away on March 22 after undergoing emergency surgical intervention.
The medical emergency began on the afternoon of March 21 while Riggs was at home with his handler, Deputy Kayla Ramos. According to the NCSO, the canine was transported to a nearby emergency veterinary facility where he underwent surgery. Despite lifesaving efforts, officials determined his condition was beyond recovery.
Originally from Hamm, Germany, Riggs brought three years of prior law enforcement experience to Nevada County when he was sworn in on Sept. 9, 2024. He was certified in narcotics detection, patrol operations, handler protection, and apprehension.
During his tenure with the Nevada County Sheriff’s Office, Riggs was involved in over 50 deployments. His record included narcotics searches and seizures, more than a dozen surrenders, and two apprehensions.
A notable deployment occurred on Jan. 8, 2025, when Riggs and Deputy Ramos responded to a midnight burglary. After four suspects fled on foot, Riggs tracked and located two individuals, finding one in a creek bed and another hidden in manzanita bushes.
Beyond his tactical duties, Riggs was a frequent participant in local public events and school functions. The Rüdiger Foundation, which supported the canine’s placement, noted his presence at the annual “RüF Paw and Order Dinner.”
“Riggs, you served with courage, stood with loyalty, and gave everything without ever asking why,” Deputy Ramos stated. “I love you, forever, and always.”
The Nevada County Sheriff’s Office and the Rüdiger Foundation issued statements of condolence to Deputy Ramos and her family. Riggs was surrounded by his handler at the time of his death.