Update (June 3, 2025, 11.41 AM):
This page has been updated to include the summary from the June 2 board meeting.
Board of Trustees Meeting - Village of Arlington Heights, IL
ARLINGTON HEIGHTS, IL — In a meeting filled with both celebration and sentiment, the Arlington Heights Village Board on Monday evening paid tribute to two retiring K-9 officers and introduced the newest member of the police department’s elite unit. The evening was marked by heartfelt farewells, enthusiastic applause, and even a few spirited barks.
The meeting, presided over by Mayor Tom Tinaglia, commenced with routine administrative matters before shifting focus to the night’s main event: honoring K-9 officers Yara and Argos, both retiring after distinguished careers, and welcoming K-9 Maui, who will begin service later this month.
K-9 Yara: A Legacy of Dedication
K-9 Yara, a Dutch Shepherd imported from Holland, served alongside Sergeant Jeff Tagmeyer for nearly a decade. During her tenure, Yara responded to more than 220 service calls, participated in over 150 public demonstrations, and assisted in locating millions in narcotics and related currency. She also tracked down fleeing suspects, including one hiding in a garbage can and another who had burglarized a neighboring town.
Yara’s retirement was formalized with the passage of an ordinance transferring her ownership to Sergeant Tagmeyer under the Illinois Police Dog Retirement Act. Chief Nick Pecora presented a shadowbox featuring Yara’s collar, star, and leash in a moment filled with appreciation and reflection. “Yara looks forward to retirement,” Tagmeyer said, “but she’ll still be sniffing—mostly for snacks.”
K-9 Argos: Courage Under Pressure
The second honoree, Argos, was born in Slovakia and joined the department in 2019 with handler Officer Mike Butler. Argos’ career included apprehending suspects in homicide cases, locating firearms and narcotics, and assisting in the recovery of over half a million dollars in illicit funds. His bravery and instincts protected both officers and the community in high-risk operations.
Officer Butler, also retiring this month after 28 years of service, received his own shadowbox commemorating their partnership. “This is the greatest police department to work for,” Butler said tearfully, vowing to ensure Argos enjoys his well-earned retirement. Argos will trade the back of a squad car for a shady yard and a couch to call his own.
Welcome K-9 Maui
To round out the night, Mayor Tinaglia administered a ceremonial oath to K-9 Maui, a Belgian Dutch Shepherd mix recently imported from the Netherlands. Maui, along with his handler Officer Steve Dinov, will officially graduate from K-9 training on June 13. The audience erupted in laughter when Maui enthusiastically barked during the oath. “I do solemnly swear… to eat lots of treats,” joked the mayor before correcting himself.
Chief Pecora concluded, “This is one of those evenings where we’re reminded why we do this work. These dogs and their handlers exemplify courage, commitment, and community.”
A Picture-Perfect Moment
The ceremony ended with all the K-9s—past and present—gathered for a group photo, alongside handlers and visiting canine units from neighboring towns. It was a fitting tribute to the furry officers who have served with honor and will forever hold a special place in Arlington Heights’ heart.
