K9 bulldog in Elgin? Police chief joins April Fools' fun

A canine star was almost born in Elgin ... had it not been April Fools' Day.

Police Chief Jeff Swoboda announced Wednesday morning in a video posted on the department's Facebook page that a French bulldog named Fonzie had joined its K9 unit - and was the first K9 of his breed in the country.

The pooch, nestled in Swoboda's arms, appeared self-satisfied as he sported a police badge around his neck. Smaller dogs are good at searching small areas and save money by eating less food, Swoboda touted in the video.

Throughout the day, hundreds of enthusiastic commenters shared the post and congratulated the department, many asking when they could meet Fonzie.

Alas, the 8-year-old dog - a member of the Swoboda household - wasn't quite up to the task, Swoboda said. The canine's retirement was announced on Facebook early Wednesday evening.

"His work ethic is not that great, and I found him sleeping numerous times," he said. "Right now he thinks he still has the badge around his neck. Unfortunately I'm going to break his little heart."

The video fooled several police officers, including high-ranking ones, Swoboda said, along with a certain Daily Herald reporter.

Swoboda said he'd been thinking of an April Fools' Day move for a few weeks. "There's so much negativity on social media; I thought to have a little fun."

Elgin police will make good on all requests to meet the pooch, Swoboda said. "We will make it happen, whether with our real K9 or with him."