K9 Tao – Union, Mississippi

Died 3/18/24
Handler – Officer Steve Robinson

Union Police Dept. bids farewell to K9 Officer Tao

It is with the deepest and utmost regret that the City of Union Police Department announces K9 Officer Tao, esteemed member of the City of Union Police Department, concluded his watch on this earthly realm on March 18, 2024. With heavy hearts, we bid farewell to a fearless companion, whose relentless dedication and unwavering partnership with his handler, Officer Steve Robinson, significantly reduced the presence of drugs on our streets. Throughout his tenure, K9 Officer Tao’s tireless work proved an invaluable resource safeguarding the security of the citizens of the City of Union.Beyond his professional accomplishments, Tao forged deep bonds with his fellow officers and the community he served. His tireless persistence and dedication endeared him to all who had the privilege of working alongside him. In times of crisis and uncertainty, Tao stood as a steadfast guardian, offering comfort and reassurance to those in need.As we bid farewell to our faithful partner, we recognize the profound impact K9 Officer Tao had on our department and our lives. Though he may no longer walk beside us, his spirit will forever endure in our memories and in the legacy of service he leaves behind.Rest in peace, faithful companion. We will take it from here. END OF WATCH: MONDAY, MARCH 18, 2024 1600 HOURS

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.