MONTGOMERY, Ala. – With deep respect and heavy hearts, the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) on Monday, Aug. 4, announced the passing of retired K-9 Pici, a devoted and highly skilled working dog who served with distinction alongside Senior Trooper Brent Pickle in ALEA’s Highway Patrol Division.
K-9 Pici was born on Oct. 4, 2018, and began her service with Sr. Trooper Pickle in June 2020. Together, the team played a vital role in public safety — removing dangerous narcotics and firearms from Alabama’s roadways and supporting numerous operations throughout the state.
Known for her exceptional nose and unwavering drive, Pici made a particular impact in the Birmingham area, assisting both ALEA and local law enforcement agencies in narcotics detection efforts.
Due to medical complications, Pici retired early but gracefully transitioned from working dog to beloved companion. On Saturday, Aug. 2, Pici passed away after nearly a 10-month battle with bone cancer.
Following her passing over the weekend, Sr. Trooper Pickle wrote:
“Today was without question the hardest thing I’ve ever had to do. A working dog is more than ‘just a pet’; they’re a law enforcement officer just as we are. Pici was with me through countless pursuits and criminal arrests — she helped put away people who needed to be off our streets. She wasn’t just my K-9 partner, she was my best friend. I’ll be forever grateful for the privilege of being Pici’s handler.”
On her final morning, K-9 Pici enjoyed one last ride and a special breakfast of sausage biscuits and treats before passing peacefully by her partner’s side at the Argo Animal Clinic — a facility Trooper Pickle credits with providing exceptional care not only to Pici, but to many working K-9s across the state.
“We are incredibly grateful to the Argo Animal Clinic for their expert care, their compassion and their commitment to Alabama’s working dogs,” Sr. Trooper Pickle added. “They helped us catch Pici’s illness and they made sure she was pain-free for as long as possible.”
ALEA Secretary Hal Taylor echoed the sentiments of Sr. Trooper Pickle and praised K-9 Pici’s extraordinary service:
“K-9 Pici embodied the courage, loyalty and dedication that define the law enforcement profession. She was not only an asset to ALEA but a protector of our communities. We mourn her passing, but we also celebrate a legacy of service that will not be forgotten.”
Colonel Jonathan Archer, director of ALEA’s Department of Public Safety (DPS) also paid tribute to Pici’s life and legacy stating, “K-9 Pici was more than a crime-fighting partner within our Highway Patrol Division – she was a symbol of loyalty, service and devotion. Her work helped make our roads safer and communities more secure. We are proud to honor her memory, and we are grateful for the incredible bond she shared with Sr. Trooper Pickle. The loss of a K-9 like Pici is felt deeply across our Agency.”
To K-9 Pici: thank you for your unwavering devotion to duty and your fierce commitment to protecting the citizens of Alabama. Your paw prints will remain on the hearts of those who served with you and the many lives you helped safeguard.
Rest well, Pici. You’ve earned it.
