The Osage Beach Police Department welcomed a new four-legged member to the force – a highly trained K-9 Officer named Freya.
Officer Freya is a 2-year-old female Belgian Malinois, a breed often used in law enforcement for its intelligence, strength and stamina. Freya marked her first day on duty Friday, Oct. 25.
“We’re proud to announce the addition of K-9 Officer Freya to our ranks,” said Osage Beach Police Chief Todd Davis. “She will aid our officers in critical situations and help strengthen our commitment to keep Osage Beach a safe place to live and work.”
Freya’s handler, 29-year-old Corporal Stephen Riner, was recently promoted to the K-9 unit after five years with the Osage Beach Police Department. He joined the department with previous military and law enforcement experience.
Freya and Cpl. Riner completed two weeks of rigorous training and certification at K9 Working Dogs International. Together, they worked on obedience training, scent detection, apprehension and tracking.
“Freya’s a jack-of-all-trades,” said Cpl. Riner. “She’s a phenomenal tracker. With a scent, she can track you to the ends of the earth.”
Cpl. Riner belongs to the Patrol Division, so citizens may see the K-9 unit around town making traffic stops. Freya will continue to participate in frequent training to keep her skills sharp.
Freya is the first K-9 officer to join the Osage Beach Police Department since 2018, when previous K-9 Officer Axel retired. Axel served from Dec. 2012 to Oct. 2018, and his predecessor A.J. served from Feb. 2006 to Nov. 2012.
K-9 Officer Profile:
Name: Freya
Breed: Belgian Malinois
Age: 2
Specialties: Tracking, scent detection of controlled substances, apprehension
Handler: Corporal Stephen Riner
Department: Osage Beach Police Department
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