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Handler – Sergeant Cody McCoy
It is with heavy hearts that the Ottumwa Police Department announces the passing of Ottumwa Police Department K-9 “Sharek”. Sharek began his career with the department on October 26, 2009 and was assigned to K-9 handler Sergeant Cody McCoy. Sergeant McCoy and Sharek have worked together on a daily basis over the past seven years. On September 22, 2016 “Sharek” was retired from the department after showing signs of being ill. Sharek was taken to ISU Campus Veterinary School where it was determined that emergency surgery was required to save his life. As a result of the surgery tumors were discovered on his spleen. Later an analysis of Sharek’s blood showed the presence of cancer. The decision was then made to retire Sharek from public service. Per Ottumwa Police Department Policy, Sergeant McCoy was granted ownership of Sharek.
