Congratulations!!

Officer Mark Richert was promoted to Sergeant on June 24 th 2009. Officer Richert started his law enforcement career at the Bayport Police Department and was hired as a patrol deputy with the Washington County Sheriff’s Office in 1998. He joined the Forest Lake Police Department in 2001 and worked as a police officer and an investigator until 2005. In March of 2005, Officer Richert was assigned as the Forest Lake Police Department’s first canine officer and worked with his canine partner Matrix until July 9 th 2009. Sergeant Richert is currently assigned as a night shift patrol sergeant.

Canine “Matrix” Retires

Sadly, Sergeant Richert’s canine partner of five years, Matrix sustained a life threatening medical condition at the end of his shift on July 9 th 2009. Matrix had his stomach turn at the end of his shift and was rushed to the University of Minnesota Veterinary Medical Center where he underwent emergency surgery. Though Matrix is expected to make a full recovery, his surgeon advised he should not be involved in any further police work. Matrix is now getting acclimated with his new life at home with the Richert family.