Police Canine Max

St. Joseph, Missouri Police Canine, Max, was born in Slovakia on September, 19, 2017. He was a Czech Shepherd. Max came to the United States and started his training at Vohne Liche Kennels in Denver, Indiana. Max was paired with Officer Lucas Winder in February 2019. They began their training together and hit the streets in April 2019. Max was a dual-purpose canine trained in Narcotics and Patrol Work. Max and Officer Winder developed a strong bond over their career together. 

On June 30,2021, Max gave his life to protects his fellow officers and the public. While assisting the Special Response Team serving an arrest and search warrant, the subject fled out the back of the residence. Max was deployed to apprehend the suspect in the backyard of the residence. The suspect fired one round striking Max. Officers were able to apprehend the suspect without further incident. Max was taken to Blue Pearl in Kansas City for treatment where he succumbed to his injuries.

Max reminds us of what a true hero is, one that is willing to lay their life on the line so that others don’t have to. Max will be truly missed by all.