Legacy K-9 of fallen officer joins Streetsboro police

STREETSBORO, Ohio (WJW) –  The wish of a fallen Twinsburg police officer is coming true years after his death thanks to the help of science and the generosity of his family.

A budding new partnership is in bloom between Streetsboro K-9 Mika and Detective Luke Nelson who officially started their first week as partners.

“I’ve always wanted to be a K-9 officer. It’s been my dream to be a K-9 officer,” said Nelson.

Chief Patricia Wain of Streetsboro police said Mika joining the department gives her chills, given the 9-month-old German Sherphard’s incredible connection to the past.

Browns sign Cleveland native, Glenville HS alum Justin Hardee Sr.

“I have a connection with the Twinsburg Police Department,” said Wain. “Bagio is Mika’s dad, who was the K-9 for Officer Josh Miktarian who was killed in the line of duty July 2008.”

“I’ll never forget how my husband came to me and said he couldn’t bear the thought of not having some kind of Bagio legacy in his life,” said Holly Miktarian.

Prior to his death, Miktarian took Bagio to a veterinary fertility clinic with the hope of future puppies. Now, years later with the help of science, Mika was born after Bagio’s passing to continue his legacy.

“Keep carrying on the legacy of Bagio. I was ecstatic,” said Nelson.

Miktarian gifted Mika to the Streetsboro police last year. Last week, Mika was sworn in as an official member of the department.

2 people rescued from fast-rising river waters under Ohio bridge

“Just having the opportunity to have a legacy puppy and fulfill one of Josh’s dreams, it’s pretty amazing,” said Wain.

Trained for tracking and narcotics, Mika has a lifetime of helping people, learning and loving ahead.

“This is probably one of my favorite things I’ve accomplished at the police department,” said Wain. “It makes me smile to have her here. I just can’t thank everybody enough that made it happen.”

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Fox 8 Cleveland WJW.