Handler – Officer Spear
Jacksonville P.D. K9 Dies After Emergency Surgery
The Jacksonville Police Department is mourning the loss of one of its active-duty K9s after it suffered a medical emergency. JPD announced Thursday that Hooch, an 8-year-old Belgian Malinois who had been with the department since 2011 died this week. K-9 Hooch’s handler, Ofc. Scott Spear, noticed that he was acting lethargic and immediately sought veterinary care, where the dog’s condition worsened,” said JPD Deputy Chief Patrick Traitor. “The veterinarian provided aggressive and exhaustive emergency care, but was not able to revive the canine.” A memorial is planned for installation at the Center for Public Safety. “We are very proud of the years of faithful service provided by K-9 Hooch in searching, tracking and assisting in apprehending subjects and we ask that you keep all of our officers in your thoughts,” Traitor said. “We have lost one of our own. Ofc. Spear is deeply saddened at the loss of his partner and family member.”