When Bolo, a gentle three-year-old pit bull mix, first stepped through the doors of the Hopkinsville Police Department, he was just supposed to be a participant in a community awareness program. No one foresaw that by sundown, his life would change forever—and so would the hearts of those at the station.
Two Months Waiting, One Chance to Shine
Before his fateful visit, Bolo had languished at a local animal shelter for two long months. Each day passed with hopeful eyes watching new visitors, but one by one, they chose other dogs. He waited—quietly hopeful—for someone to see his gentle nature and choose him.
Then came “Paw-Trol Wednesdays,” a new initiative dreamed up by Public Information Officer Royale Marfil. The idea was simple: spotlight a single shelter dog at the police department each week, letting visitors, officers, and staff meet them in a welcoming environment. The hope was that by bringing the dog into the community space, more people would take notice and open their hearts. Bolo was the first to be featured.
First Impressions That Turned Into Something More
As Bolo walked into the station that morning, the mood was warm, cautious, and curious. He sniffed corners, wiggled his tail tentatively—and then blossomed. Friendly, playful, full of spirit: by lunchtime, officers were giving belly rubs, staff were tossing toys, and Bolo was sliding into hearts.
Royale Marfil recalls the turning moment: “He just warmed up to everyone so fast. Once he started playing, it was impossible not to fall in love with him.” Before long, the question wasn’t if they would adopt him—it was when.
Throughout the day, Bolo toured the halls, greeting visitors with eyes full of gratitude. He sought attention and offered it freely in return. At some point, as laughter echoed through the offices, he curled up right in Marfil’s workspace and drifted to sleep, content and peaceful—snoring gently, like he had always belonged.
When quitting time came, though, he hesitated. His head drooped, he let out a soft whimper—and no one could bring themselves to make him leave.
From Visitor to Mascot — A Permanent Place in the Team
Touched by Bolo’s reluctance and the staff’s immediate attachment, Marfil floated an idea to Chief Newby. His response was simple and decisive: “Yeah, why not? Let’s keep him.” Just like that, Bolo was invited to stay.
The plan: by day, Bolo would live at the station as official “mascot,” greeting visitors, lifting moods, and acting as a warm presence for staff and community alike. At night, he would ride home with Marfil—to ensure he always had a loving bed to sleep in, and a place where he truly belonged.
To make the change official, Marfil took him to buy a collar and toys, and “that’s when he really knew,” she says. “He was so happy—you could see it in his eyes. He finally felt chosen.” In early November, Bolo was formally sworn in as the first “Paw-trol Officer” of Hopkinsville PD—a playful title, but one that carries real meaning in the hearts of everyone who sees him.
More Than Just a Cute Face: Bolo’s Role
Bolo’s official duties don’t include sniffing out contraband or chasing suspects. Instead, his job is far simpler—and often far more meaningful: to be himself. His mission is to bring warmth, joy, and comfort to each person who crosses his path.
Whether it’s offering an ear to scratch, greeting a worried visitor, or just bringing a moment of calm to a stressful shift, he’s become a source of light. “He has the biggest smile every day,” Marfil says. “Pet him, and his grin only gets bigger. On tough days, Bolo’s goofy smile makes everything just a little bit better.”
Within the walls of Hopkinsville PD, Bolo isn’t just a novelty—he’s family. He’s proof that sometimes the greatest connections come when you least expect them. A shelter pup in search of hope, who walked in for one day—and ended up staying forever.