The Henry County Police Department is in mourning following the death of one of its most esteemed members, retired K-9 officer Sam. The 13-year-old Belgian Malinois, died Sunday, concluding his service to the community which spanned five and a half years. Sam served alongside Officer Phillip Dillard, who was by the dog's side until the end, according to Henry Herald.
As a skilled member of the K-9 unit, Sam's duties included patrol, and detection of dangerous substances, a role he fulfilled with distinction before his retirement in 2019. "K-9 Sam passed peacefully in the arms of his handler (Phillip) Dillard" the department said in a statement. The current K-9's, now bearing the responsibility of Sam's legacy, are set to continue from where he left off, per Henry Herald.
The impact of Sam’s dedication to the job has left a lasting imprint on the heart of the community and his comrades in the Henry County Police. Fellow officers and residents are coming forward with expressions of empathy over the loss of the beloved K-9 officer. "He was a dedicated and loyal member of the police force", the department reminisced in their homage to their fallen comrade.
Throughout his tenure, Sam exemplified the best of the bond between a working dog and handler, as well as the greater connection between the police force, and the community it serves. The Henry County Police Department, where he was an integral part of the team, is grappling with the void left by Sam's passing. This sentiment is reflected in statements made by those who knew him best, offered in tribute to the loyal service Sam provided throughout his career, FOX 5 Atlanta reports.
