The Maricopa County Sheriff's Office is coping with the sudden death of one their four-legged enforcers, a K-9 named Kimbo, who passed away due to a fatal medical condition known as "bloat". The beloved Belgian Malinois was found unresponsive in his kennel on May 1 and later pronounced dead after a swift medical evaluation.

Expressing their sorrow, the Sheriff's Office described Kimbo as "a powerhouse of a dog, amazing partner, and a symbol for the ideal police canine." These attributes, as reported by AZFamily, highlight the dog's remarkable service in support to the MCSO's SWAT team and patrol districts across Maricopa County. He was an integral part of the force, having served with dedication alongside his handler, Deputy Stryker.

Veterinarians concluded that Kimbo's death was the result of Splenic Torsion combined with Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus. Commonly termed as bloat, the condition is a serious and often rapidly progressive disease that can affect dogs, potentially leading to life-threatening complications.

The Maricopa County Sheriff's Office is encouraging those who wish to honor Kimbo’s memory to consider donations in support of the K-9 unit. Contributions will be utilized to purchase new ballistic vests for the four-footed officers and to fund medical care for retired K-9s. As per a statement obtained by 12 News, MCSO mentioned, "You will be missed K-9 Kimbo but never forgotten! Please keep Deputy Stryker and our K-9 unit in your thoughts as they process this loss." Interested parties can make their donations through the MCSO's Advisory Council website.