The DeKalb County Police Department is in mourning following the death of retired K9 officer Drago, who passed away on January 14. Drago, a distinguished police dog known for his impressive service record, spent eight years with the department from March 2014 until his retirement in January 2022. He was a seasoned veteran in the fight against crime, with more than 400 deployments resulting in 100 arrests, as reported by FOX 5 Atlanta.
Accompanied by his handler, Master Police Officer Burrell Daniel, Drago was a force on the force with his keen senses leading to 34 apprehensions and over 100 drug finds. These finds comprised a mixture of cocaine, marijuana, heroin, methamphetamine, and pills, collectively valued at upwards of $35,000 on the streets. CBS News Atlanta also notes that Drago’s work aided in the seizure of 15 weapons and a vehicle, fortifying his role in safeguarding the community of DeKalb County.
Following his retirement, Drago was not just a former member of the force; he became part of Officer Daniel’s family, where he enjoyed his post-service years. The DeKalb County Police Department celebrated Drago's commitment to public safety, citing his career as a testament to the strong bond between a handler and their canine companion. While officials have not disclosed the cause of his death, the sense of loss is palpable among the officers and community members alike.
As mentioned on CBS News Atlanta, "Throughout his career, Drago played a vital role in supporting the citizens of DeKalb County and helping to keep the community safe," the department expressed in a homage on Facebook.
