K9 Heroes
Each K9 who serves the public and their handler is a hero. The bond between a police officer and his service canine is stronger than most could ever imagine. Those special friends who have recently been lost, bear a special place in our heart. Believe in the Rainbow Bridge! Till then, our hearts will be especially heavy.
Midvale Police K9 Koda was killed in the line of duty by gunfire as he engaged a fleeing armed suspect January 1, 2010. The suspect was also killed, after officers, fearing for their own lives, returned fire. Koda gave his life doing what he loved to do "chasing bad guys and protecting officers". Koda gave himself to save officers lives and that makes him a true HERO. Koda took care of business 'till his last breath! Our deepest sympathies to Officer Brian Todd during this tough time.
|
 |
Midvale Police Service Dog "Vader", a German Shepherd Dog, passed away early March 24th, 2009. Vader was handled by Officer Jared Richardson. Richardson and Vader took many violent criminals off the streets and had many high-profile apprehensions. During their career, Vader suffered bloat and Doctors at Lone Peak Veterinary Hospital saved Vader's life. Vader was out catching bad guys just a few days after surgery. Even after surgery he was able to work for quite some time. He passed away due to unrelated issues. He will be deeply missed.
|
 |
Sandy Police Service Dog "Diablo", a Belgian Malinois, passed away during the early hours of September 26, 2008. Diablo was handled by Officer Andrew Gordon and was a dual purpose dog (certified in patrol tactics and narcotics detection). |
 |
Salt Lake City Bloodhound "JJ" Lost his battle with cancer in the early hours of Thursday March 13, 2008 with his family at his side. To all who knew him or who's life he has touched, he will be deeply missed. Officer Mike Serio and JJ tracked down over 350 fugitives in their career. JJ was the first police bloodhound in the Salt Lake County area, and one of a very few (if not the only) team to introduce tracking in a very urban environment. As a result of their tremendous success, Salt Lake City Police has added additional bloodhounds, and three other police agencies in the county have added bloodhound teams. JJ's owner, Officer Serio was inspired to create the "JJ Police Dog Fund", for Utah active or retired police K9's who need assistance with medical care. |
|
K9 "Jack", a black lab, served the West Valley Police Department from May of 2007 to May of 2008. He was a single purpose narcotic detection dog and had been responsible for dozens of narcotic finds. Jack was handled by Det. Matt Jones. |
 |
