K9 Mygo – Jefferson, Texas

Handler – Deputy Brigette Morse

Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office Mourns Loss of Valiant K9 Mygo After Cancer Battle

In a poignant ceremony in Beaumont, Texas, the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office recently said goodbye to one of its most distinguished members, K9 Mygo, a 10-year-old Belgian Malinois, following a battle with an aggressive form of cancer. Serving alongside Deputy Brigette Morse for over five and a half years, Mygo’s career was marked by notable achievements in drug seizures, tracking, and community outreach, particularly in educational settings. His sudden illness and subsequent diagnosis led to a heartfelt farewell that underscored his impactful service and the deep bond shared with his partner.Mygo’s tenure with the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office began in June 2018, quickly becoming an integral part of the team. Over the years, he was deployed 286 times in various capacities, including vehicle searches, residence checks, tracking calls, jail operations, and school visits. His work not only aided in drug seizures but also played a significant role in ensuring the safety of the community. Mygo’s contributions extended beyond the field of law enforcement; he was a beloved figure in local schools, where he participated in safety education programs, teaching students about the importance of public safety and the roles K9 units play in their community.The loss of K9 Mygo was deeply felt by the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office and the wider community. A final walk and farewell ceremony were organized in his honor, attended by Deputy Morse, fellow officers, and community members who had been touched by Mygo’s service. This solemn event not only provided an opportunity to commemorate Mygo’s contributions but also highlighted the unique bond between K9s and their handlers. Deputy Morse, visibly moved during the ceremony, shared reflections on their time together, emphasizing Mygo’s unwavering loyalty, intelligence, and the joy he brought to every task.Mygo’s passing is a somber reminder of the sacrifices made by K9 units in the line of duty and the profound impact they have on their communities. These highly trained animals do more than assist in law enforcement activities; they become part of the fabric of the communities they serve, embodying dedication, courage, and an unbreakable spirit. As the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office and the community mourn the loss of K9 Mygo, they also celebrate his life and the indelible mark he left on all who had the privilege of knowing him. His legacy serves as a testament to the vital role K9 units play in public safety and community engagement, ensuring his memory will live on.

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.