K9 Diesel – Reeves, Texas

Died 1/21/25
Handler – Lieutenant Jurado

Reeves County mourns loss of beloved K9 hero, Diesel: A legacy of service and loyalty

The Reeves County Sheriff’s Office is mourning the loss of one of its most cherished K9 members, Diesel, a dual-purpose police dog who passed away on Tuesday, January 21, 2025, due to an unforeseen medical emergency.Diesel’s passing marked the end of a remarkable career dedicated to protecting the community and building an unbreakable bond with his partner, Lieutenant Jurado.“Diesel was more than just a partner; he was family, a devoted protector, and a symbol of loyalty,” the Sheriff’s Office said in a heartfelt statement. “He leaves behind a legacy of service and dedication that will never be forgotten.”Diesel served alongside Lieutenant Jurado for seven years, forming a formidable team that worked to safeguard the community. Known for his sharp skills and dedication, Diesel played a vital role in several operations, leading to the seizure of millions of dollars worth of narcotics and hundreds of thousands of dollars.K9 Diesel’s work extended beyond his impressive contributions to law enforcement. He also embodied the essence of courage and loyalty, always putting the safety of others first. “He was a hero in every sense of the word, always putting the safety of others before his own,” the Reeves County Sheriff’s Office stated.His bond with Lt. Jurado was a testament to the unique connection between K9 officers and their handlers, rooted in trust, love, and mutual respect. Diesel’s partner, Lieutenant Jurado wrote this message in regard to his passing:“A piece of me is with you Diesel. You were my first K9. You taught me patience, frustration, undeniable love, and dependability. You were truly a mans best friend and would never leave my side whether at work or at home. Most saw a fearsome K9, especially Sgt. Vasquez and Deputy Rubio, but if they witnessed your want for cuddles at home with your family, they’d know you were just a big teddy bear. Thank you for the past 7 years, you truly were a blessing from God and I will never forget you and your uncanning ability to find narcotics. I love you, son, enjoy all the kongs in doggie heaven.”As the community grieves, the Sheriff’s Office emphasized Diesel’s enduring legacy.“Though Diesel is no longer physically with us, his legacy lives on in every life he touched. Rest easy, Diesel. You will always be remembered. We have the watch from here.”The community is invited and encouraged to join a memorial service for K9 Diesel on Friday, January 31, at 11 am. The service will be held at the Veterans Memorial Park in Pecos.

Submitted By Jim Cortina

James A. Cortina has been involved with police dogs since 1972 and currently on the Board of Directors for the Connecticut Police Work Dog Association Inc. Jim has been appointed as Treasurer since its inception in 1991. Jim is one of the charter members of the C.P.W.D.A. organization. Since 1975 he has been a certified professional dog trainer and received his Master Trainer Certification in 1985. During his career he has provided armed K-9 strike crowd control for security agencies in Connecticut and out of state security companies. In conjunction with other members of the Connecticut Police Work Dog Association Inc. Board of Directors, he helped to draft Connecticut Statute 53-247(e) "Intentional Injury or Killing of Police K-9" which was passed by the Senate in 1993 and also assisted in implementing the prestigious Daniel Wasson Memorial K-9 Award in 1992. In 1993 he helped coordinate the North American Police Work Dog Association Nationals in New London, Connecticut. He was appointed Training Director for the New London County Work Dog Association from 1985-1987. He performed decoy work for Connecticut Police Work Dog Association Inc. in police K-9 demonstrations, trained several local police department canines, and coordinated training workshops for out-of-state police departments. He participated in the United States Police K-9 Association Trials in Croton on Hudson, New York in 1985 as a decoy. He is an avid photographer and received photography awards in 1989, 1990, and 1991 and currently takes photographs for the Connecticut Police Work Dog Association Inc.