K9 Laky – North Versailles, Pennsylvania

North Versailles Police K-9 Unit mourning loss of officer Laky

Handler – Chief Locke

With heavy hearts, the North Versailles Township K9 Unit announces the passing of one of its bravest and most loyal members, retired K9 Laky. Laky, a dedicated Belgian Malinois, devoted his life to ensuring the safety and security of the North Versailles community alongside his handler and lifelong companion, Chief Locke for 9 years.Born with an innate sense of duty and discipline, Laky began his service at a young age and quickly became an indispensable asset to the community. Chief Locke and Laky shared an unbreakable bond, formed over years of partnership, countless hours of training, and shared moments of both danger and respite. Their bond was a testament to the deep connection that can exist between a handler and their canine partner. Throughout his service, Laky was instrumental in the apprehension of numerous suspects, detection of illicit narcotics, and played a critical role in various community activities. Children in schools loved seeing him, knowing they were in the presence of a true hero. Laky was not only a protector but also an ambassador of goodwill, bridging the gap between law enforcement and the community.In retirement, Laky enjoyed being home with his family and fury siblings where he relaxed with his favorite toys, treats, and his true favorite; driving his dad nuts. Laky’s legacy will be remembered by every officer of the North Versailles Police Department, every child he comforted and played with, along with every community member he protected. We bid farewell to a true hero, a beacon of hope, and a loyal friend. The North Versailles Police Department extends its deepest condolences to Chief Locke and his family. Laky’s contribution to our department and the community will never be forgotten.

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.