Memorials to Fallen K-9s
2013-K
The F.A.S.T. Co. donates sets of memorial cards to all partners 
 I need your help to inform me of such losses.

Dept. addresses available for those who want to send condolences to officers. See below
In Loving Memory of
K9 KYZER
December 2013
Handler: Lt. Charles Gray 
North Andover Police
1475 Osgood Street
North Andover, MA  01845
 
Police K9 Kyzer passes away
North Andover Police Lt. Charles Gray with Kyzer

Kyzer, the famous local K-9 unit dog who has saved multiple lives, has passed away. Kyzer made headlines in his tenure as
 crime-fighter before retiring in 2011. His handler, Lt. Charles Gray, treated him as a family member from criminals,
Kyzer spent his career bettering the lives of the officers with whom he worked. Kyzer enjoyed his retirement
 living with Gray and hisand law enforcement partner. Whether he was chasing wild turkeys out of intersections,
 finding missing people or saving officers  family. A statement on the North Andover Police Department page reads:
 "Chief Gallagher sadly announces the death of retired North Andover Police K9 Kyzer. K9 Kyzer was
honorably retired in August 2011 after six and a half years of exemplary service. Since retirement K9 Kyzer
enjoyed life at home with his handler Lt. Charles Gray and his family. Kyzer will be missed by the
Gray family and the members of the North Andover Police Department.
submitted by Jim Cortina, Dir. CPWDA


In Loving Memory of
K9 KANE
December 21, 2013

Handler: Cpl Matt Nero
Pocono Mountain Regional Police
2454 Pennsylvania 940,
Pocono Summit, PA 18346
 
Award-winning Poconos narcotics dog passes away
 
A retired Pocono Mountain Regional police K-9 who won an award as the top Monroe County narcotics officer
in 2010 passed away at his home this weekend, police announced Tuesday.
 

A retired Pocono Mountain Regional police K-9 who won an award as the top Monroe County narcotics officer in 2010
 passed away at his home this weekend, police announced Tuesday. K-9 Kane, an 11-year-opld German Shepherd,
started with the department in 2003 and retired in 2010, serving as a patrol, tracking and narcotics dog,
Pocono Mountain Regional police Chief Harry Lewis said. He was part of more than 200 arrests, Lewis said.
Kane was responsible for hundreds of drug seizures and vehicles worth more than $1 million and also
tracked missing persons and found evidence which was discarded by suspects, Lewis said.

In 2010, Kane was awarded Monroe County Drug Task Force Officer of the Year by the Monroe County
Drug Task Force. He retired that year and lived with his handler, Cpl. Matt Nero. Kane passed away
at home Saturday, Lewis said. Lewis said Kane "touched the lives of thousands of kids during his countless
 demonstrations at local schools and camps." "Our thoughts and prayers go out to Cpl Matt Nero and we
 appreciate and honor Kane's dedicated service for the citizens of Coolbaugh, Tobyhanna,
Tunkhannock Townships and Mt. Pocono Borough."

submitted by Jim Cortina, Dir. CPWDA


In Loving Memory of
K9 KASSIE
November 29, 2013

Handler: Detective James Mandeville 
Pequannock Township Police Department
530 Newark-Pompton Turnpike
Pompton Plains, NJ 07444-1799
 
Pequannock Township mourns death of first police dog
The Pequannock Township Police Department regretfully announced last week that its first police dog has died.
According to the Dec. 11 police blotter on the township's website, K9 Officer Kassie, a German shepherd,
 joined the department in June 2005, and then attended a 12-week training program with her
 owner/handler Detective James Mandeville. "She aided in numerous drug arrests throughout her eight-year career,"
states the blotter. "Kassie not only helped the Pequannock Township Police Department, but also assisted many
surrounding towns as well, including the Morris and Passaic county prosecutor's offices.
 
Kassie was able to connect with adults and children alike, and developed a great rapport between the community
and the Police Department." As reported on NJ.com, Kassie was 9 years old when she died on Nov. 29 from
 spleen and lung cancer. "Kassie will be most remembered for her many visits to our local schools,
daycare facilities, Scouting events and community events, including her annual march in the
 Memorial Day Parade," continues the blotter. "Kassie touched many of our youths by demonstrating
 her ability to search and locate drugs.
 
With her gentle demeanor, she always allowed the students to pet her, bringing smiles to all the
children's faces. Kassie will certainly be missed by all." Police said that thanks to Kassie's efforts,
 the Police Department has been able to advance its K9 program. Using funds that Kassie had
 helped seize, the department added another K9 unit, Jemma, who is
handled by Patrolman Kevin Ricciardi, in 2011. 
Submitted by Jim Cortina, Dir. CPWDA
 

In Loving Memory of
K9 KAHN

2013
Handler: Sergeant Glenn Sipel  
Palmer Township Police Department
5 Weller Place
Easton, PA 18045
 
 
Passing of K9 Kahn
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of one of our Finest Retired K9's. KAHN partnered with
Sergeant Glenn Sipel from 2004, until Kahn retired earlier this year. Kahn served the
 Palmer Township Police Department and the Community well for over 9 years, and will be missed
 by all.
We offer Our sympathies to Sergeant Sipel and his Family.
 RIP Kahn and thank you for your Service.
submitted by Jim Cortina, Dir. CPWDA

In Loving Memory of
K9 KINDRA

November 17, 2013



Handler:
 
Costa Rican Public Security Ministry

Ticos hold funeral for perished police pooch

Officers bid farewell to their loyal friend and colleague.

Kindra, a top security dog who helped with the visits of Presidents Barack Obama and Xi Jinping, was 68 in dog years.
In a small and moving funeral ceremony Sunday, officers with the Costa Rican Public Security Ministry laid to rest
 one of their fellow officers, a Belgian Malinois named Kindra. The dog had passed away just hours before,
 from an illness. Kindra served as an official police dog for eight years. Her breed is commonly used in police
work and search and rescue missions around the world. She was born in to the Costa Rican canine unit
and started training as a puppy. She lived to be nine human years, about 68 in dog years.

In 2013 alone, Kindra completed more than 70 jobs, including 25 site reviews for President Chinchilla and
15 searches in Juan Santamaría International Airport. She was in charge of site inspections for the areas
that Presidents Barack Obama and Xi Jinping visited. Her searches produced 88 flares, 40 makeshift smoke bombs,
 six M40 grenades, guns and rifles. The funeral was conducted on the premises of the MPS Special Unit, in
the company of other dogs and their official guides. "We regret this loss,” said Roberto Ortega, head of the
Canine Unit. “Kindra was … a companion, a living being who accompanied us on many jobs and for
eight years. "The Costa Rican Canine Unit was created in 1988 and currently employs 38 dogs.
submitted by Jim Cortina, Dir. CPWDA


In Loving Memory of
K9 KAISER
June 2, 2013

Handler: Ptl. Jamie Lebretton
Plymouth Police Department
Plymouth, Mass.

Police dog's department says solemn goodbye at final trip to the vet

This striking image shows the last journey Kaiser, a K-9 with the Plymouth, Mass., Police Department made after a life
 of dedicated service. Kaiser's handler, Ptl. Jamie Lebretton, posted this image of the dog, which was euthanized
 after kidney disease brought an abrupt decline to his health. Kaiser's department didn't let him take his final
trip alone, saluting Kaiser as he was lead into the vet’s office, leaving behind a heartbroken handler to post
 a touching tribute on Facebook. Lebretton wrote, "Kaiser taught me more about myself and my profession
 than I could have ever taught him. I feel privileged to have had a front row seat to witness his bravery
and heroic actions serving the people of Plymouth and my brothers and sisters in blue."
From: Paul Chapman 
Subject: Final tribute
From: stovall125@aol.com
Date: Sun, 2 Jun 2013 12:31:41 -0400

submitted by Beth Szylaggi <union.labor@att.net>Szylaggi

In Loving Memory of
K9 KRACK
August 14, 2013


 


Handler:
Harris County Sheriff's Office 
 1200 Baker St. 
Houston, TX  77002

 
K-9 dog dies of heat in deputy's patrol car 
 

The Harris County Sheriff's Office is investigating a deputy after his K-9 dog died of heat exhaustion after
 being left in the deputy's patrol car. The deputy has been placed on administrative leave until the
internal affairs investigation is finished.
Bernstein says the dog died Aug. 14 after the deputy arrived home,
 became distracted and left the dog in the car. He says the deputy is a 20-year veteran of the
sheriff's office and has been with the K-9 unit for 12 years. Bernstein says sheriff's officials are
considering options for keeping similar deaths of K-9 dogs from recurring.
submitted by Jim Cortina, Dir. CPWDA


 

In Loving Memory of
K9 KOBI

September 17, 2013
 
Handler: Sgt. Michael Ravenelle
Ledyard Police Department
11 Lorenz Parkway
Ledyard, CT  06339-1511
The Patrol Division is responsible for the protection of life and property of residents and visitors to the Town of Ledyard. The Ledyard Police Department Patrol Division is highly proactive in its approach to law enforcement, providing a visible proactive patrol presence at all times. The Division has six Sergeants, who serve as shift supervisors, as well as 12 Patrol Officers.

This Division is responsible for all aspects of Police service such as proactive patrol, motor vehicle enforcement, response to calls for service, and the investigation of criminal complaints. Within the Patrol Division, the Ledyard Police Department operates three sub-divisions which are extremely beneficial to its operation.
 
submitted by Jim Cortina, Dir. CPWDA

In Loving Memory of
K9 KILO

September 10, 2013
Handler: Deputy Gerald Ahern
Pima County Sheriff Department
1750 E Benson Hwy
Tucson, AZ 85714
 
 
Pima County sheriff’s K-9 dies after freak accident
 
Deputy Gerald Ahern and his K-9 Kilo were “one of the most productive narcotics teams in the history of the Pima County Sheriff’s Department Canine Unit," an official said.  ( SPINAL CORD INJURY / EUTHANIZED )

A sheriff’s department K-9 had to be euthanized after a freak off-duty accident Tuesday. Kilo, a Belgian Malinois, was chasing a toy in the backyard of his handler, Deputy Gerald Ahern, when the dog suffered a paralyzing spinal cord injury, Deputy Jesus Bañuelos, spokesman for the Pima County Sheriff’s Department, said in a news release. “He was diagnosed with trauma to his spinal cord from a broken piece of spinal disk,” Bañuelos said. “The veterinarians treated Kilo with every procedure available to them. Unfortunately, they were unable to restore any movement in Kilo’s rear legs” and the decision was made to euthanize the police dog.

Kilo was purchased by the sheriff’s department in November 2010 and was assigned to Ahern. After 12 weeks of basic training, Ahern and Kilo were certified by the National Police Canine Association in the specialties of narcotics detection and patrol. The deputy and his dog were described by Bañuelos as “one of the most productive narcotics teams in the history of the Pima County Sheriff’s Department Canine Unit.” Since February 2011, Ahern and Kilo conducted 263 narcotics searches. The combined total of Kilo’s seizures was 4,723 pounds of marijuana, 43 pounds of cocaine, four pounds of methamphetamine, a half-pound of heroin, and more than $1 million in United States currency. One of Kilo’s most notable seizures was made on August 28. During the search of a commercial tractor-trailer, Kilo alerted to a wooden crate containing a large safe. As a result of this alert, the safe was opened and more than $300,000 in suspected drug-related currency was found. K9 Kilo was euthanized. (same injury K9 Rex had.)
submitted by Jim Cortina, Dir. CPWDA


In Loving Memory of
K9 KALI
August 3, 2013
 
Partner: Officer Art Smith
Peru Police Department
1503 4th St  Peru, IL 61354
chiefbernabei@perupolice.org
(815) 223-2151

Peru police canine dies after traffic accident: Officer headed to investigate armed robbery
A Peru Police Department dog died Saturday night following a traffic accident as a squad car hurried to the scene of an armed robbery at Verizon Wireless, 4327 Route 251, not far from Peru Mall.  The specially trained dog—Kali, a female Belgian Malinois—was killed when it was thrown from the police car following a collision at 36th Street (Wenzel Road) and Route 251 with another vehicle shortly before 7 p.m.

Kali was the first Peru police dog killed in the line of duty.
The unnamed officer/handler reportedly received nonlife-threatening injuries in the accident and was transported to Illinois Valley Community Hospital. A witness at the scene said the other driver, who has yet to be identified, was "shook up" but unharmed in the collision.  Police still are investigating the armed robbery at the cell phone center and have issued an alert searching for a blue van believed to be used by the two fleeing suspects, who were described as black males.  On June 20, an Ottawa cell phone store and an undisclosed number of customers were robbed of merchandise, personal phones and cash. No one was injured. 
Police said two black males entered the Sprint store by Air 1 Wireless, 2440 Columbus St., at about 6:30 p.m. that evening, announcing, "This is a robbery," while displaying a handgun.  Authorities said at the time an undisclosed amount of merchandise, cell phones and money were taken from the store, its employees and customers.  Following the Ottawa robbery, police Capt. Dave Gualandri said, "This robbery is similar in nature to others reported throughout the state and Midwest from semi-organized (criminal) groups. There is no indication that the suspects involved are from the immediate area."

It was reported June 21 by the Chicago Tribune that a similar robbery occurred May 13, in which two black men robbed a Sprint store in Tinley Park. Cash and cell phones also were taken in that robbery.
Steve Stout,
steves@mywebtimes.com, 815-431-4082
submitted by Chief Douglas Bernabei <chiefbernabei@perupolice.org>
MORE:

Condolences are pouring into the Peru Police Department after Kali, a female Belgian Malinois police dog, died as a result of a traffic accident involving a city squad car as her K-9 handler rushed to an armed robbery call in Peru on Saturday night. Police Chief Doug Bernabei said his department has received hundreds of Internet postings, phone calls and emails from supporters not only in the local community but from all over the Illinois Valley and beyond. A memorial service for the animal is being planned for later in the week.

Trained for drug detection, tracking and crime scene searching, the police dog was killed in a two-vehicle accident as Peru K-9 Officer Art Smith was headed northbound on Route 251 shortly before 7 p.m. Saturday. The officer was rushing to an armed robbery report at Verizon Wireless, 4327 Route 251, not far from Peru Mall. As the police cruiser, with emergency lights flashing and sirens activated, entered the intersection of Route 251 and 36th Street (Wenzel Road), it was struck broadside by a vehicle driven by Randy R. Koehler, 44, of Peru. The officer immediately was transported by ambulance to Illinois Valley Community Hospital in Peru for examination and treatment.
 
Both drivers avoided serious injury. "This was a no-fault accident," explained Bernabei. He confirmed that neither his officer or Koehler would be issued any citations from the collision. The accident is under investigation by Illinois State Police. "Officer Smith was authorized to go through the red light (due to the nature and emergency of the armed robbery call)," he said. "It was just a sad, unfortunate incident. This has been hard for Art and our entire department." The animal joined the department last fall and was the first dog killed in the line of duty in the city.

Bernabei said his detectives continue to collect evidence and information from the phone store and its employees, including video surveillance, which shows two black men leaving the crime scene in a bluish-colored minivan. He said alerts on the robbery suspects immediately were relayed across North Central Illinois on Saturday night through the Illinois State Emergency Radio Network. If caught, Bernabei speculated the men could not only face armed robbery charges but also most likely would be charged of indirectly causing the death of a police service animal — a Class 3 felony carrying a penalty of up to five years in prison. Bernabei said a public open house celebration of Kali's life and services to the department will be in the community room from
 5 to 7 p.m.  Thursday, Aug. 8, at Peru City Hall, 1901 Fourth St.
    
MORE:
 
Police officer, fallen dog praised at services
8/8/13
Kali’s collar decorates an urn in the corner of the room where people gathered to pay their respects to the canine and show their support for officer Art Smith.
 
Art Smith’s police cruiser was blown so violently off Route 251 in a crash that it spun through the median ditch, taking out a pole on the way, and continued spinning into the oncoming lanes. Smith was “dazed and hurt,” as his command sergeant recounted Thursday, but the worst realization was the condition of his partner, who was ejected in the crash. Smith is a K-9 handler and his partner, Kali, a female Belgian Malinois, was grievously injured. She was euthanized before the night was out. Smith declined to address a packed house at Peru City Hall, so it fell to Sgt. Scott DeGroot to detail “the worst day of his (Smith’s) career” — and to note how Smith busied himself not with his own injuries but his partner’s and the condition of the driver with whom he collided.
 
“Officer Smith, your courage and unselfish display during the horrible event, your ability to still have concern and compassion for others and put them ahead of yourself makes you a hero to me and all your fellow officers,” DeGroot said. “We and this community are lucky to have you. You’re a great police officer, a great person and a great friend.” A second hero was honored in what police termed a “celebration of service.” A small black urn bearing Kali’s ashes was placed in a discreet corner of the community room and a procession of police and civilians walked past to pay solemn — and in many cases tearful — homage to Peru’s fallen officer.
MORE========

Officers gather to pay respect to fallen police dog
Jaci Kohn, jacik@mywebtimes.com, 815-673-6372

On a sunny August evening, crowds gathered to the sounds of barking dogs and bagpipes to say goodbye to a fallen comrade. Kali, a female Belgian Malinois police dog, was killed Aug. 3 as a result of a traffic accident. Kali and her K-9 handler, Officer Art Smith, were struck broadside as they were rushing to an armed robbery report at the Verizon Wireless store in Peru.

Officers and police dogs lined up outside the entrance of Peru City Hall on Thursday evening to honor Kali, who joined the department last fall, and her K-9 handler. Civilians also gathered outside to show their respect. Once Smith and his family arrived, the officers saluted him. Clint Wagoner, a bagpiper with the Chicago Police as part of the Emerald Society Pipes and Drums, led Smith and his family into the building to the sound of his music. The remaining officers and public followed.

The community room in City Hall was full of people who wanted to offer their support to the grieving officer. The line stretched outside the building and continued in waves for more than an hour. Tears were seen in Smith's eyes as he was embraced by fellow officers and friends. The area fire departments came to pay their respects, as well as officers from the surrounding areas. Photos of the dog as well as the many drugs she helped find were on display. Kali's ashes were in an urn in front of an American flag, so those in attendance could pay respect to her as well. A touching scene was displayed when an officer brought her dog into the room and had it lay down in front of the table as if to say goodbye.

Also Thursday evening, a large group of motorcyclists gathered at a local Shell Gas Station as a sort of honor guard. The group rode together on their motorcycles to the ceremony. Participants in the ride arrived wearing black bandanas with a paw print on it with the letters E.O.W. on them, meaning end of watch.

After an hour of well wishing, Police Chief Doug Bernabei addressed the crowd. He thanked everyone for coming and said the outreach from the public and other police departments had been moving and spoke volumes. He wanted the evening to be a celebration of Kali's service. "We are here to have an uplifting experience and to let Art know that we are here for him and his family," he said. Officer Paul Samuelson, owner of the North Iowa K-9 training company, trained Kali and Smith. He said he worked with them for 160 hours and the two were an excellent team. "My hardest job is to pair up the right dog with the right handler," he said. "I did a pretty good job of doing that."

Officer Brian Zebron, who works with the La Salle County State's Attorney Office and is the Dean of K-9 in the area, was one of the first people to arrive on the scene. "It's not how Kali died that made her a hero, it's how she lived," he said. Sergeant Scott Degrew, Smith's immediate supervisor on the night shift, said he worked with Smith for 11 years and he always displayed courage and passion and a sense of pride in his work as an officer and as a canine handler. He went on to say how he acted that night made him a hero to himself and all of his fellow officers. Officer Zebron then presented Smith with a plaque for his dedicated service. The night ended with a slideshow presentation of pictures of Kali and Smith at work and at play and an announcement from dispatch.

"K-9 Kali, you have ended your duty here. We will remember your dedication, your fearlessness and your devotion. All units break for a moment of silence. K-9 Kali, may you rest in peace. ... Peru Police K-9 Kali, you tlineare 10-42."
submitted by Jim Cortina, Dir. CPWDA


In Loving Memory of
K9 KEISER
July 5, 2013
 

Handler: Officer John Slocum  
Elgin Police Department
151 Douglas Ave
Elgin, IL 60120 
website - http://www.cityofelgin.org/index.aspx?nid=82

Elgin Officer John Slocum and K-9 partner Keiser take a play break during a training session. Keiser died of cancer.
 
K-9 Keiser passes away from cancer
Elgin police officer John Slocum and Keiser, a German shepherd, were a K-9 unit in Elgin for six years.
Keiser died on duty July 5 from cancer. Keiser was the first Elgin Police Department dog to die on duty.
The department plans to create a memorial in its lobby to honor all service dogs that have worked in Elgin.
 Police officials still are determining whether to get another dog.

Police recently lost a loyal member of the department — one of the three dogs that make up its K-9 unit.
About two months ago Keiser wasn’t feeling well, so his handler, Officer John Slocum, took the German Shepherd
 to the vet. The diagnosis was Keiser’s spleen had ruptured due to cancer. Elgin police officer John Slocum
and Keiser, a German shepherd, were a K-9 unit in Elgin for six years. Keiser died on duty July 5 from cancer.
 Keiser was the first Elgin Police Department dog to die on duty. The department plans to create a memorial
 in its lobby to honor all service dogs that have worked in Elgin. Police officials still are determining
whether to get another dog.

One of Elgin's three police dogs died of cancer last week, the first dog to die while still on duty in the city,
his handler said. Eight-year-old Keiser was diagnosed with cancer about two months ago, when his handler,
Officer John Slocum, first noticed the German shepherd had become lethargic. shepherd had become lethargic.
 Keiser had surgery and went back to duty, but he collapsed while on routine patrol July 5, Slocum said.
He was euthanized at Dundee Animal Hospital in East Dundee. "He was an extremely efficient, very high-drive,
 phenomenal police service dog, as well as a good friend and partner to me," Slocum said. "He was unbelievable.
 His drive was through the roof."

Keiser was a dual-purpose dog, meaning his duties included both patrol and narcotics detection. "He lived to work.
 All he wanted to do is work," said Slocum, who was paired with Keiser in 2007. A few years ago, Keiser
and another police dog saved a suicidal man's life. Keiser followed the man's scent and found him clinging
 to a tree with a rope around his neck, Slocum said. Police were able to help the man and bring him down safely,
 he said. Keiser's other notable achievements include recovering $62,000 in cash and finding a 6-pound package
 of marijuana vacuum-sealed and packed in drier sheets. Police dogs live with their handlers and usually retire
 at about age 10, Slocum said.

All previous Elgin police dogs reached retirement, including Slocum's two previous K-9 partners. Keiser loved to
play with hard rubber balls that he routinely chewed to pieces. He also loved milk bones, but work was his passion,
 Slocum said. Losing Keiser was emotional for Slocum's family, he said. "He was the family dog." Elgin police will
determine whether to get another dog, Slocum said. The initial cost, including training, is about $15,000;
 the weekly maintenance training cost is minimal, he said. Meanwhile, the department is planning to
create a memorial in its lobby to honor all service dogs that have worked in Elgin. "It's a lot of that we
ask of them. It's a lot they give us," he said. "(Keiser) served the city well. He'll be missed."
submitted by Jim Cortina, Dir. CPWDA


In Loving Memory of
K9 KILO

June 24, 2013
 
Handler: Trooper Nathan Abbott
Indiana State Police Department
(Southern Indiana)
 

Police dog shot and killed during standoff  Indiana State Police Department

A police K-9 was shot and killed during a standoff with a man who ran from officers trying to serve a warrant in Sellersburg, according to Indiana State Police. The man currently is involved in a standoff with police at a house that does not belong to him. Investigators said the man ran away on foot as Sellersburg police tried to serve the warrant. The suspect ran into a house on East Delaware and fired shots. It is not known whether police returned fire. An ISP K-9 was hit by at least one bullet and killed. Sources tell WAVE 3 News the dog was Kilo, a well-known K-9 that made numerous drug busts with his police handler. It is not immediately clear whether there are hostages. Some neighbors are being kept from their homes at this time.  submitted by Jim Cortina, Dir. CPWDA

M O R E >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

Indiana State Police will hold a private memorial service on Monday for its Southern Indiana canine named Kilo, who was killed in the line of duty June 24 while searching for an armed suspect in Sellersburg.  The memorial service will begin at 1 p.m. at the Northside Christian Church, 4407 Charlestown Road in New Albany, Sgt. Jerry Goodin, a state police spokesman said in a news release on Friday. Law enforcement, family and friends of Kilo’s handler, state police Trooper Nathan Abbott, are invited to attend, Goodin said.

Joshua Priddy, 31, of Sellersburg, faces 18 felony charges stemming from the shootout with police from several area departments near his home in Sellersburg that wounded Clark County police Detective Chris Proctor in the leg and killed Kilo.  Priddy’s charges include seven counts of attempting to murder local and state police officers, pointing a firearm at his 16-year-old son and two Sellersburg police officers who initially responded, criminal recklessness, resisting law enforcement, killing a law enforcement animal, entering four neighborhood houses that were not his own and attempting to enter a fifth house.  After a day in which 30 to 40 rounds were fired, including numerous gas canisters, Sellersburg Police Chief Russ Whelan said the situation ended about 9:30 p.m. when Priddy came out the back door of a house in the 700 block of East Delaware Court after hiding in a closet. He was wearing a torn shirt and boxers.

The incident started about noon when Sellersburg Police received a call from the 800 block of Iowa Avenue about a man needing help and later encountered Priddy’s wife, who told them he was having a mental breakdown.  Sellersburg Cpl. Drew LaMaster, Capt. Mark Levesque and Whelan were the first officers to respond to the call, according to a probable cause affidavit from state police Trooper Joshua Banet, who investigated the incident. Officers heard “commotion” nearby on Georgian Avenue and once there, they spotted Priddy and his son “playing tug of war” with Priddy’s 4-year-old daughter, the affidavit states.

As officers approached, the man allegedly pointed a gun at Whelan and LaMaster before letting his children go and running.

Indiana State Police arrived after the officers chased him around the neighborhood and troopers helped surround him inside a house in the 700 block of Delaware Court.  Trooper Abbott repeatedly yelled to let Priddy know he was going to release Kilo and again once Kilo was released. Kilo went down a hallway while Chief Whelan, Trooper Abbott, Trooper Kevin Fisher, Trooper Bill Hannon, Trooper Matt Busick and Det. Randy Burton, of the Clark County Sheriff’s Department) made entry into the residence, the affidavit states.

“As officers were inside the residence shots were fired from a back room where K9 Kilo had went toward,” the affidavit states.  Whelan said bullets also came through the drywall toward the officers.  Trooper Abbott called for Kilo, but he “was unable to get K9 Kilo to respond after the shots,” the affidavit states.  Police said Kilo was wearing a bullet-proof vest when he was killed.  Police and Priddy exchanged gunfire over the next few hours, but the affidavit does not state how many shots.  Clark County police Det. Chris Proctor also was shot in the lower leg during one of the exchanges, an injury that required surgery the following day.  Priddy, a former captain with Louisville & Rescue, was fired in 2012 for failure to report for duty, department spokesman Sale Melendez said. His house at 818 Iowa Street was scheduled to be auctioned July 11.

As officers approached, the man allegedly pointed a gun at Whelan and LaMaster before letting his children go and running. Indiana State Police arrived after the officers chased him around the neighborhood and troopers helped surround him inside a house in the 700 block of Delaware Court.  Trooper Abbott repeatedly yelled to let Priddy know he was going to release Kilo and again once Kilo was released. Kilo went down a hallway while Chief Whelan, Trooper Abbott, Trooper Kevin Fisher, Trooper Bill Hannon, Trooper Matt Busick and Det. Randy Burton, of the Clark County Sheriff’s Department) made entry into the residence, the affidavit states.  “As officers were inside the residence shots were fired from a back room where K9 Kilo had went toward,” the affidavit states.  Whelan said bullets also came through the drywall toward the officers.  Trooper Abbott called for Kilo, but he “was unable to get K9 Kilo to respond after the shots,” the affidavit states.  Police said Kilo was wearing a bullet-proof vest when he was killed.  Police and Priddy exchanged gunfire over the next few hours, but the affidavit does not state how many shots.  Clark County police Det. Chris Proctor also was shot in the lower leg during one of the exchanges, an injury that required surgery the following day.  Priddy, a former captain with Louisville & Rescue, was fired in 2012 for failure to report for duty, department spokesman Sale Melendez said. His house at 818 Iowa Street was scheduled to be auctioned July 11.    (submitted by Jim Cortina, Dir. CPWDA)


In Loving Memory of
K9 KODA
June 10, 2013


Handler: Patrolman Robert Ellmyer, Jr.
Edison Police Department
100 Municipal Blvd.
Edison, NJ 08817
 732 248-7400 

The Edison Police Department is mourning one of its police canines, Koda, an 8-year-old German shepherd,
who died of apparent natural causes Monday.
The dog had served as part of the Edison Police Department since 2006.

Koda was assigned to his handler and partner, Patrolman Robert Ellmyer Jr. Koda
was a certified narcotics detection canine, as well as a police service dog.

“Koda has been an integral part of the overall police operation for many years,” Edison Police Chief Thomas Bryan said. “He always performed his duties admirably and was responsible for removing significant quantities of drugs off of our streets.

“In addition, Koda was loved by many of our citizens, especially the children who had the opportunity see him during his many demonstrations at various community events over his career.”

During Koda’s career, he assisted in several hundred narcotic searches in and out of Edison and worked with several levels of law enforcement, including: municipal police departments, the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office and the
Federal Drug Enforcement Agency, police said. During that time Koda’s participation led to more than
$175,000 in asset forfeitures and the seizure of an indeterminate quantity of narcotics, police said.

The Edison Police Department still has one operational canine, Lucky. Lucky, an 8-year-old German shepherd,
 certified as an explosives detection canine, as well as a police service dog, with his handler, Patrolman Shawn Meade.
submitted by Jim Cortina, Dir. CPWDA


In Loving Memory of
K9 KAISER
May 31, 2013
End of Watch : 5/31/13 - 1213 hrs.

Handler – Officer Lebretton 
Plymouth Police Department
20 Long Pond Rd
Plymouth, MA 02360
 
 
Plymouth Police Dog Laid To Rest

The picture above shows Kaiser the German Sheppard, a police dog stationed with police department in the town of Plymouth, Massachusetts today. Kaiser is being led on his final walk, saluted by his fellow officers, as he is taken into the veterinarian’s office to be euthanized shortly before noon. The dog had been serving with the department for several years, trained for criminal pursuit and apprehension, crowd control and disbursement, and searches of buildings and areas for evidence recovery. Recently, he was diagnosed with severe kidney disease, and his health declined to the point where his kidneys failed. The department made the difficult decision to euthanize Kaiser, and he was laid to rest earlier today at the Angel View Pet Cemetery in Middleboro, Mass. Kaiser joined the force in 2011 after being donated to the police department by a local family.

In a post to the Plymouth Police Working Dog Foundation’s Facebook page, his handler said the following about his partner: “Kaiser battled this disease with vigor and toughness like I have never seen before. Although, as of late, the disease has taken the upper hand forcing him out of his craft and ultimately out of this world. Kaiser taught me more about myself and my profession than I could have ever taught him. I feel privileged to have had a front row seat to witness his bravery and heroic actions while serving the people of Plymouth and my brothers and sisters in blue. Although his career was short lived, he made a huge impact that will never be forgotten.”

Afterward, Lebretton posted the following to his friend and partner on Facebook: RIP my boy. I could not have asked for a better partner or friend. May you rest easy and wait for me at that sacred bridge. I will be there my friend. I will be there. I will never forget you or our accomplishments. You made me a better person, a better handler, and a better cop. Till we meet again KAI. I love you and will miss you daily.   submitted by Jim Cortina, Dir. CPWDA
MORE

A Young canine, not yet three years of age, with the Plymouth, Mass., Police Department was euthanized on Friday due to a fatal condition, reported ABC 7 Chicago News. The dog, a German shepherd named "Kaiser," was diagnosed with chronic kidney disease this past March; the condition was determined to be terminal.
Kaiser's handler, patrolman Jamie Lebretton, shared the devastating news with Facebook followers on Wednesday, stating:

Although his career was short lived, he made a huge impact that will never be forgotten. Kaiser loved being a Police Dog and I will miss him dearly.  Out of love and respect for Kaiser, and with the input from our excellent vet, trainer, and family, I have made the heart wrenching decision to end Kaiser's suffering.

Before Kaiser was put down, police officers with his department saluted him on his last walk to the veterinary hospital.
update submitted by Frank Burnetti


In Loving Memory of
K9 K.T.
April 18, 2013


Handler: Detective Scott Grant
Pasco Sheriff's Department
8700 Citizen Dr.
New Port Richey, FL 34654
 
 
Pasco deputy mourns loss of dedicated police dog K.T.
 
Detective Scott Grant and K.T. were together for about 12 years, both as partners in law enforcement and as family members.

K.T., a retired Pasco sheriff's police dog known for her keen drug-finding skills and widespread affection, passed away Thursday of what appeared to be old age. She was 14. The Pasco Sheriff's Office bought the yellow Lab when she was 2 from a trainer in Tennessee. Her partner, Detective Scott Grant, remembers she slept in the same bed with him during her two-week training near Memphis. On the flight back to Tampa, he demanded she sit with him in the plane's cabin. "She's not going in the belly of the plane," he remembers telling a flight attendant. "She's a police officer."

Once with the agency, K.T. split her time between drug busts and keeping students' attention at drug-awareness presentations. "She found an enormous amount of drugs" on duty, searching cars, airplanes and houses, Grant said. K.T. once recovered 85 pounds of marijuana in a car in Zephyrhills. At school assemblies, 400 to 500 elementary students would line up to pet her. K.T. was recognized as "K-9 of the Year" in 2004 by the Florida Veterinary Medical Association. Over time, Grant said, K.T. became a member of his family.

He remembers bringing her home when they got off duty about 1 a.m. to see her slip into one of his three children's rooms, where she'd curl up in bed with them or on the bedroom floor. K.T. retired from the force in 2009 and stayed home with Grant's family. This week, Grant said he let her outside while he was cleaning the pool behind the family's house in hilly Dade City. K.T. walked to the bottom of a hill in the yard like she did every day, but this time she couldn't get back up. Grant knew it was time. On Thursday afternoon, Grant and his wife took K.T. to a veterinarian to have her put to sleep. Grant said K.T. will be cremated and her ashes placed in an urn. He said he'll always remember "her demeanor. Nobody was afraid of her. She loved people."
submitted by Jim Cortina, Dir. CPWDA


In Loving Memory of
K9 KUBO
March 24, 2013

Handler: Officer Tim Casto 
Richmond Heights Police Department
27201 Highland Rd
Cleveland, OH 44143
 
 
Service held for Richmond Heights police K9 who served 10 years
Kubo served 10 years with the Richmond Heights Police Department. The dog died unexpectedly last week.
 Photo courtesy of patrolman Tim Casto.

A memorial service was held April 2 in Willoughby Hills befitting a police officer who had given much of his life to fighting crime and making the streets safer. In fact, the service was for a police officer, this one with four legs. Kubo, the Richmond Heights Police Department’s K-9 officer the past 10 years died suddenly last week. The 11-year-old German shepherd was adopted in 2003 from Germany by his owner and police handler, RHPD patrolman Tim Casto. Kubo went through training and the certification process and then joined Casto on the police force. The dog was certified in narcotic detection, criminal apprehension and building searches.

During his year’s on the force, Kubo was credited with locating a missing 7-year-old girl, as well as an Alzheimer’s patient. Locally, Kubo was seen by many for his part in demonstrations for D.A.R.E., outreach centers, churches and schools. RHPD Chief Gene Rowe spoke of Kubo’s value in limiting the amount of confrontations police officers had with suspects when the dog was present. “In our line of work, you don’t want physical confrontation,” Rowe said. “That’s why Kubo was so invaluable to the department. “Just the strength of his presence kept difficult situations from escalating.”

Speaking about the difference in Kubo during his on-duty and off-duty hours, Casto said, “He commanded respect at work, but at home Kubo was never an aggressive dog. He played, he had his own room. He was our son.” Kubo lived with Casto, his wife, Kelly, and their daughter. The service, held at DeJohn Funeral Homes & Crematory, 28890 Chardon Road, was well attended and included officers and police K-9s from other local departments. Rowe, Casto and Richmond Heights Mayor Daniel Ursu spoke at the service, which featured a trumpeter playing taps and, at its conclusion, a bagpipe player accompanying the procession from the funeral home with the song “Amazing Grace.” Casto carried the container holding Kubo’s ashes from the home, ending what one attendee called an emotional tribute to the dog.  submitted by Jim Cortina, Dir. CPWDA


In Loving Memory of
K9 KYTO
February 24, 2013
 

Handler: Cpl. Kevin Naugle 
Novato Police Department
909 Machin Ave
Novato, CA 94945

website - http://www.cityofnovato.org/Index.aspx?page=345
Kyto, Retired Novato Police Canine, Passes Away

Officer Kevin Naugle with Kyto (now retired) were part of PD's canine unit. 
 
Kyto retired as a Novato police dog on Aug. 23, 2011. 

The Novato Police Officers Association announced the passing of Kyto. We are sad to report the passing of retired
 NPD Canine "Kyto" on Feb. 24, 2013. Kyto was a treasured and essential part of the Novato PD family. Kyto started
 his career in 2003 with Officer A.J. Winter at Novato Police Department. Officer Winter transferred to the
Sonoma County Sheriff's Office in 2005 and Kyto joined forces with Cpl. Kevin Naugle. Naugle and Kyto
remained a team until September 2011 when Kyto was retired from the force. Post retirement, Kyto
continued to reside with his handler. When advising us of Kyto's passing, Cpl. Naugle quoted that Kyto was
 "a great partner, his best friend and a loving member of Naugle's family." Rest in Peace Kyto.
 Thanks for all the backup you provided over the years.
submitted by Jim Cortina, Dir. CPWDA


In Loving Memory of
K9 KODY
February 12, 2013

Handler: Officer Dave Longbehn
St. Paul Police Department
St Paul, MN

St. Paul Police K9 Killed, Suspect Shot By Officer

A St. Paul Police K9 was stabbed and killed during the execution of a search warrant at a home in St. Paul on Tuesday. Kody worked with Officer Dave Longbehn. He had been with St. Paul Police Department since 2005. St. Paul police officers, along with the Ramsey County Sheriff's Office and the U.S. Marshall's Office served a search warrant at a home in the 700 block of Aurora Avenue. Police say Kody entered the home and encountered a suspect in the basement. The man started stabbing Kody. Officers then shot and killed the suspect. Kody died at the scene.

The man who stabbed Kody is from Missouri, police say. He was being sought by authorities in connection to a first-degree criminal sexual conduct warrant. Kody also was by the Longbehn's side in 2010 at the murder scene of Maplewood Police Officer Joe Bergeron. Longbehn confronted Bergeron's murderer and nearly died when he was attacked, he fought off the attacker and shot and killed him. Longbehn was named national officer of the year for his heroics that day. Kody never left his side. Mayor Chris Coleman released the following statement today regarding the Kody's death.

"My heart goes out to Officer Longbehn and his family as they cope with the loss of Kody. Kody was Officer Longbehn's eyes and ears on the front line and served Dave, the Saint Paul Police Department, and our city with honor for seven years. K-9 dogs take on whatever task is asked of them, oftentimes amidst the worst of circumstances. I thank him for his sacrifice for the city, I am thankful for the safety of Officer Longbehn and other officers involved in this incident, and I will remember Kody fondly as a good partner and companion for Officer Longbehn and the City of Saint Paul."
submitted by Jim Cortina, Dir. CPWDA


In Loving Memory of
K9 KARAN
February 1, 2013

Handler: Officer Rob Angelo  
Bangor Police Department
240 Main Street
Bangor, ME 04401
 
 
Bangor police dog dies
Bangor Police officer Rob Angelo and his K-9, Karan, search for clues near 67 First street
during a stabbing investigation in May 2012.

The German shepherd named Karan who wore a Bangor Police Department badge on his collar and spent years searching for lost children, digging up evidence in homicides and other crimes and sniffing out drugs has died. “Rest In Peace Partner. I will miss you,” Bangor police Sgt. Rob Angelo posted on his Facebook page on Feb. 1. The police department posted a Facebook message Monday expressing its gratitude for the dog’s years on the job. He was 12 when he died and is described in the post as Angelo’s “faithful partner, friend, and family member.” Angelo could not immediately be reached for comment Thursday. “Karan worked tirelessly as a member of the Bangor Police Department with his nose always to the ground and was involved in countless arrests and successful searches,” Sgt. Paul Edwards posted on the department’s Facebook page.  

“From all of us at the Bangor Police Department, rest in peace, Karan and thanks for all you did for the citizens of this community!” Angelo had been working with Karan for two years when the partnership was featured in a Bangor Daily News article that ran in September 2005.Angelo was working with the department ’s newest police dog, a 3-year-old German shepherd named Lex, when he was featured in a story about searching schools for drugs and getting the dog’s police certification. Angelo was promoted to sergeant in late May 2012, and with the promotion his K-9 duties were relinquished. Officer Jason Linkletter and Kim Donnell are now the designated K-9 officers, Edwards said.      submitted by Jim Cortina, Dir. CPWDA


In Loving Memory of
K9 KODA
January 31, 2013
 

Handler: Deputy Ron McMullen 
Leon County Sheriff's Office
2825 Municipal Way
Tallahassee, FL 32304
K-9 Deputy Koda killed in Thursday night shooting

A K-9 Unit was shot to death during a Thursday night shooting, according to Leon County Sheriff's officials. Around 8:42 p.m., deputies spotted a suspect, 31-year-old Carlos Manuel Cespedes, in the area of North Monroe Street and Fred Georgie Road. Cespedes was wanted on charges of attempted murder, aggravated battery with a deadly weapon and discharging a firearm from a vehicle. These charges stem from another shooting that happened earlier on January 31. Tallahassee police say Cespedes shot a man in the forearm; the man was reportedly having a sexual relationship with Cespedes' girlfriend.

When deputies attempted to stop Cespedes and arrest him for these charges, he sped off in a silver vehicle. Deputies followed him to 2115 Seminole Drive. That's where LCSO officials say Cespedes got out and began shooting at the responding deputies. K-9 Deputy Ron McMullen, deployed his partner “Koda,” who was shot. In response, Mcmullen and another deputy, Tyler Epstein, began firing at Cespedes. He was shot in the head. No other injuries was reported. After the incident, Koda died at a local animal hospital. He was a 5 ½ year old German shepherd who had served with the Leon County Sheriff’s Office since 2008.

Sheriff Larry Campbell said, “Last night the Leon County Sheriff's Office lost a valuable member of the agency. LCSO K-9 'Koda' was killed while protecting his partner, Deputy McMullen and other deputies from an armed violent fugitive. 'Koda' was a fearless and loyal partner. He was trained to serve and protect, and that is exactly what he did." Epstein and McMcullen are on administrative leave, without pay, until an internal investigation is completed. This is standard Leon County Sheriff's Office policy whenever a suspect is shot by law enforcement. The suspect, Cespedes, was taken the emergency room after the shooting. When he is released, he will be transported to the Leon County Jail.

M O R E ----------

Memorial service held for K-9 deputy Koda    2/8/13   Florida

The law enforcement community turned out to say goodbye to a k-9 deputy killed in the line of duty. Officials at the Leon County Sheriff's Office say Koda a five year old German Shepard saved his partners life as well as other deputies. The K-9 deputy and his partner deputy Ronn McMullen were virtually inseparable. Sadly the two will never enjoy anymore time together. Koda was killed in the line of duty last week when a suspect fired shots at his partner and other deputies. Never hesitating Koda ran into the direction of gunfire. He was shot and killed.

Sgt. Brain Pearson heads the K-9 Unit at the Leon County Sheriff's Office he says, "He exited the truck knew his target and ultimately saved those deputies lives distracted that suspect so that deputy McMullen and the other deputies could do their job." At the memorial service standing room only. More than five hundred law enforcement officers, K-9's attended. Authorities from around the state were there. The Gainesville Police Department sent most of their K-9 unit. Officer Jeff Kerkau, from the Gainesvillle Police Department says, "Just to support fellow officers, fellow k-9 units. It is important anytime somebody dies in the line of duty.

Whether it be a officer or K-9 dogs." Those who knew Koda the best say the five year old German Sheperd was one of the best bomb sniffing dogs they've ever seen. They also say the K-9 deputy was fiercely independent and a hero. For his bravery the department gave him the Medal of Honor. Lt. James McQuaig, from the Leon County Sheriff's Office says, "This extreme bravery and courage went beyond the call of duty, acts in life threatening peril and in defense of other the medal of honor is awarded." The Leon County Sheriff's Office five member K-9 unit is now one short. Pearson says, "We will always remember him and the things he has done. The laughs, tears and joy. All the captures he has done for all the citizens of Leon county."

submitted by Jim Cortina, Dir. CPWDA