DOG GONE

DOGGONE

Williamson County K-9 officer retires

STAFF REPORTS

GEORGETOWN

Kato is done taking a bite out of crime.

Kato, a sevenyear veteran of the Williamson County sheriff’s K-9 unit, is leaving the force to live the good life as a pet in the home of his handler Deputy Charles Duvall.

Williamson County Sheriff’s Office K-9 officer Kato, nearly 10 years old, prepares to leave his post for what officials said is a well-earned retirement.

Kato and Duvall have been partners for Kato’s entire stint as a canine officer of the law, which began in 2018.

Originally from Chile, Kato arrived in the United States specifically to serve as a police K-9. He is a Belgian Malinois.

According to deputies, Kato leaves behind “a stellar record” with more than 600 deployments and 350 arrests, including three bite apprehensions.

“Through Kato’s hard work more than 765 pounds of narcotics and $1.9 million were seized,” according to a statement.

During the Aug. 25 session of the Williamson County Commissioners Court, County Judge Steven Snell and his colleagues approved Kato’s retirement and thanked him for his service.

Williamson County Commissioners Court commended sheriff’s K-9 unit Kato for his years of service and accepted his resignation during its Tuesday, Aug. 25 meeting. Kato’s fans include Sheriff Matt Lindemann (left), handler Deputy Charles Duvall, Commissioner Terry Cook, County Judge Steven Snell, Kato and commissioners Valerie Covey, Cynthia Long and Russ Boles. Photos courtesy of the Williamson County Sheriff’s Office

Williamson County Sheriff’s Office K-9 officer Kato poses with contraband he assisted in seizing during a case. He is a Belgian Malinois and is retiring from the force after seven years.

Upload date: 08/30/2025 06:00 AM

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