PRESCOTT, WI —K-9 Officer Caesar, a 4-year-old German Shepherd who joined the Prescott Police Department in 2022, has officially retired from active duty due to a degenerative spinal condition. Caesar’s early retirement was formally approved at the July 28 Prescott City Council meeting, where the council authorized the transfer of ownership to his handler, Officer Jesse Neely, and his family for a symbolic $1.
City Administrator Matt Wolf acknowledged the efforts of the individuals and community members who helped raise funds to bring Caesar to the department and expressed the shared sentiment: everyone wishes they could have had more time with him.
Police Chief Eric Michaels issued a detailed letter to the council explaining the medical condition leading to Caesar’s retirement. After displaying signs of pain, Caesar was evaluated at AERC (Animal Emergency & Referral Center). An MRI conducted on July 15 revealed that Caesar suffers from L7-S1 intervertebral disc protrusion (IVDP) and foraminal stenosis. AERC specialists recommended “a lower impact lifestyle for Caesar given the MRI findings,” noting that continuing rigorous police field work could worsen his condition.
“After careful veterinary evaluation and consideration of his health and well-being, it has been determined that retirement is in the best interest of K9 Caesar,” Michaels wrote. He recommended the transfer of ownership to Officer Neely, citing Neely’s “exceptional care and dedication” and his commitment to providing Caesar a loving home in retirement.
In a public press release, Chief Michaels praised Caesar’s contributions:
“Throughout his career, K-9 Caesar has played a vital role in the safety and success of the department’s operations. His contributions include narcotics detection, suspect apprehension, search and rescue efforts, and public outreach demonstrations. Despite his young age, Caesar has built an impressive service record and earned the admiration of both his fellow officers and the broader community.”
“Due to an unforeseen medical condition, the city has made the difficult decision to retire Caesar earlier than anticipated. He will now enjoy a well-earned retirement at home with his handler, Officer Jesse Neely, and his family—trading his badge for belly rubs and playtime.”
At the Council meeting, Officer Neely also addressed the room, expressing heartfelt gratitude:
“I appreciate the opportunity I’ve had to be his handler,” Neely said. “And that my family gets to keep him at home.
“It’s unfortunate that his time at work here is come short but we got the opportunity to have him, and you guys are a big part of that. On behalf of my family and myself we thank you and look forward to see what the future brings.”
Alderperson Dar Hintz also spoke, highlighting the emotional weight and responsibility of welcoming a K-9 into a home:
“People don’t know the commitment that the families make when they take in a K-9. Thank you to all of you because we know it’s a lifelong commitment of the dog for sure. And he has blended in with your family from the very beginning. He is an incredible dog, and he will be deeply missed,” Hintz said.
Alderperson Maureen Otwell added her congratulations: “And congratulations on his four years of service.”
In response, Neely shared a bit of levity about the journey:
“It was fun,” answered Neely. “It’s been the best job in law enforcement I’ve ever had. The most amount of work but the best job. Hands down.”
The Prescott K-9 Project and broader community have played a vital role in making Caesar’s service possible, and both the city and the police department have extended their thanks for the public’s ongoing support.
While Caesar’s official duties may be over, his legacy as a loyal partner, protector, and ambassador for the department will continue to be remembered throughout Prescott and beyond.