In the heart of Louisa County, Officer Andre Rademeyer, a former combat medic and K-9 handler, patrols the streets with his steadfast companion, Ratel, a Belgian Shepherd whose name translates to “honey badger” in Rademeyer’s native Afrikaans. Ratel and “Rad” are more than just a K9 team; they are a symbol of resilience, loyalty, and unwavering dedication to serving and protecting the community.
“I’m gonna treat folks how I want my family to be treated,” Rademeyer reflects, his words echoing the values of compassion and kindness instilled in him from a young age. With a deep-rooted commitment to helping others, Rademeyer sees his role not just as a law enforcement officer but as a beacon of hope and support for those in need.
Raised on the principle of empathy, Rademeyer understands the profound impact that simple acts of kindness can have on others. “You never know whose life you might be able to change,” he muses, emphasizing the importance of forging meaningful connections and fostering a sense of community within Louisa County and beyond.
As Rademeyer and Ratel traverse the streets, their partnership is palpable, their bond unbreakable. Together, they have undergone rigorous training, honing their skills in patrol, tracking, and apprehension. But beyond their professional duties, it’s their shared experiences and moments of quiet understanding that truly define their relationship.
The schedule of a K-9 handler is demanding, with Rademeyer working 2 p.m. – 2 a.m. on a 2-5 rotation, meaning two days on duty followed by five days the following week. Ratel is always available during peak hours, typically from 4 p.m. to midnight, ensuring a strong police presence during the busiest times. The bond between Rademeyer and Ratel extends beyond duty hours, as Rademeyer emphasizes, “He’s my best friend. He goes everywhere I go. He’s part of my family.”
Ratel, originally from Hungary, joined the team in April 2019, and both Rademeyer and Ratel underwent extensive training. A 14-week patrol dog school through Richmond K-9 and a subsequent 12-week narcotics school with Chesterfield K-9 equipped them with the skills needed for a variety of law enforcement tasks. Although Ratel was initially certified in marijuana detection, the legalization of marijuana prompted a shift in focus to other essential functions such as area searches, tracking, building searches, and apprehension on command.
The duo’s achievements are commendable, with the Louisa County K-9 unit winning the Louisa Crime Solver Officer of the Year award in 2022. They also boast the highest number of narcotics arrests in 2021. Rademeyer acknowledges the community’s support, mentioning Larson Custom Homes as a contributor to the unit’s success by sponsoring their dog food.
In addition to Rademeyer and Ratel, the Louisa County Sheriff’s Office K-9 unit includes Ally, a bloodhound known for her tracking expertise, and Atrax, another patrol dog with dual-purpose capabilities. Together, these teams form a formidable force, united in their commitment to keeping the community safe.
Together with their fellow K-9 teams, Rademeyer and Ratel have helped locate missing persons, apprehend suspects, and uncover crucial evidence. But Rademeyer’s impact extends far beyond the confines of law enforcement. Through his unwavering dedication and tireless efforts, he has become a trusted ally and confidant to those he encounters. “The one thing I’ve learned about being in law enforcement,” Rademeyer reflects, “is that no matter how bad the situation is, you gotta find the silver lining.”
Their most significant legacy lies in the connections they’ve forged and the lives they’ve touched. Rademeyer’s commitment to building trust and fostering relationships in the community has led to lasting bonds that transcend the badge and uniform. “You never know whose life you might be able to change,” Rad continues, “I appreciate all the friendships that I have made and that I will form in the future.”
Hi! I’m Jennifer Bailey and I partner with entrepreneurs who have massive ideas that could change the world. Most marketing is meaningless. Filled with empty promises, its only job is to bring in new traffic, new leads, and new customers. But I’ve drawn a line in the sand, and I’ve learned that marketing can do so much more than reach business goals and build profit. My methods give businesses the fire and soul they need to reach the right people, set the groundwork for sustainable relationships, and offer true value to the people on both the giving and receiving ends of marketing.
Subscribe for Updates
Sponsors
latest articles
In the heart of Louisa County, Officer Andre Rademeyer, a former combat medic and K-9 handler, patrols the streets with his steadfast companion, Ratel, a Belgian Shepherd whose name translates to “honey badger” in Rademeyer’s native Afrikaans. Ratel and “Rad” are more than just a K9 team; they are a symbol of resilience, loyalty, and unwavering dedication to serving and protecting the community.
“I’m gonna treat folks how I want my family to be treated,” Rademeyer reflects, his words echoing the values of compassion and kindness instilled in him from a young age. With a deep-rooted commitment to helping others, Rademeyer sees his role not just as a law enforcement officer but as a beacon of hope and support for those in need.
Raised on the principle of empathy, Rademeyer understands the profound impact that simple acts of kindness can have on others. “You never know whose life you might be able to change,” he muses, emphasizing the importance of forging meaningful connections and fostering a sense of community within Louisa County and beyond.
As Rademeyer and Ratel traverse the streets, their partnership is palpable, their bond unbreakable. Together, they have undergone rigorous training, honing their skills in patrol, tracking, and apprehension. But beyond their professional duties, it’s their shared experiences and moments of quiet understanding that truly define their relationship.
The schedule of a K-9 handler is demanding, with Rademeyer working 2 p.m. – 2 a.m. on a 2-5 rotation, meaning two days on duty followed by five days the following week. Ratel is always available during peak hours, typically from 4 p.m. to midnight, ensuring a strong police presence during the busiest times. The bond between Rademeyer and Ratel extends beyond duty hours, as Rademeyer emphasizes, “He’s my best friend. He goes everywhere I go. He’s part of my family.”
Ratel, originally from Hungary, joined the team in April 2019, and both Rademeyer and Ratel underwent extensive training. A 14-week patrol dog school through Richmond K-9 and a subsequent 12-week narcotics school with Chesterfield K-9 equipped them with the skills needed for a variety of law enforcement tasks. Although Ratel was initially certified in marijuana detection, the legalization of marijuana prompted a shift in focus to other essential functions such as area searches, tracking, building searches, and apprehension on command.
The duo’s achievements are commendable, with the Louisa County K-9 unit winning the Louisa Crime Solver Officer of the Year award in 2022. They also boast the highest number of narcotics arrests in 2021. Rademeyer acknowledges the community’s support, mentioning Larson Custom Homes as a contributor to the unit’s success by sponsoring their dog food.
In addition to Rademeyer and Ratel, the Louisa County Sheriff’s Office K-9 unit includes Ally, a bloodhound known for her tracking expertise, and Atrax, another patrol dog with dual-purpose capabilities. Together, these teams form a formidable force, united in their commitment to keeping the community safe.
Together with their fellow K-9 teams, Rademeyer and Ratel have helped locate missing persons, apprehend suspects, and uncover crucial evidence. But Rademeyer’s impact extends far beyond the confines of law enforcement. Through his unwavering dedication and tireless efforts, he has become a trusted ally and confidant to those he encounters. “The one thing I’ve learned about being in law enforcement,” Rademeyer reflects, “is that no matter how bad the situation is, you gotta find the silver lining.”
Their most significant legacy lies in the connections they’ve forged and the lives they’ve touched. Rademeyer’s commitment to building trust and fostering relationships in the community has led to lasting bonds that transcend the badge and uniform. “You never know whose life you might be able to change,” Rad continues, “I appreciate all the friendships that I have made and that I will form in the future.”
Hi! I’m Jennifer Bailey and I partner with entrepreneurs who have massive ideas that could change the world. Most marketing is meaningless. Filled with empty promises, its only job is to bring in new traffic, new leads, and new customers. But I’ve drawn a line in the sand, and I’ve learned that marketing can do so much more than reach business goals and build profit. My methods give businesses the fire and soul they need to reach the right people, set the groundwork for sustainable relationships, and offer true value to the people on both the giving and receiving ends of marketing.
Subscribe for Updates
Sponsors
latest articles
Can Lake Anna Get Urgent Care? Why Medical Providers Say ‘No’
Photo: Roundtable Hosting by Melanie Lucero and Michael Boyce; Taken by John Heishman For years, Lake Anna residents have voiced…
Article By Jen Bailey
The Cove Holds Steady to ‘Lake Time’ Amidst Local Development Boom
While growth at Lake Anna speeds up, The Cove slows it down. And for this pillar business, the rapid pace…
Article By Jen Bailey
Louisa Schools Deliver $30,000 Donation to Support Grayson County’s Hurricane Recovery
In a remarkable act of kindness, administrators from Louisa County Public Schools (LCPS) journeyed across the state today to deliver…