Salem Police Mourn Loss of Retired Canine Jack

News Release from: Salem Police Dept.
SALEM POLICE MOURN LOSS OF RETIRED CANINE JACK
Posted: July 27th, 2012 3:35 PM
Photo/sound file: http://www.flashalertnewswire.net/images/news/2012-07/1095/56354/K9_JACK.jpg
Photo/sound file: http://www.flashalertnewswire.net/images/news/2012-07/1095/56354/jack.jpg

It is with great sadness that the Salem Police Department announces the passing of retired canine Jack on July 9, 2012. Jack was 11-years old and had a very productive six year career with his handler, Officer Sean Cooper.

Jack was a Belgian Malinois, born in May 2001. He earned an IPO-3 Title and was imported to the United States from Holland by Adlerhorst International in November 2004. Officer Cooper and Jack attended the Adlerhorst Basic Police K-9 School in Riverside, CA and went into service with the Salem Police Department in January 2005. He retired on March 27, 2011.

Jack had many firsts for the Salem Police Canine Unit. He was the first and only cross trained patrol dog, trained to search for both suspects and drugs. Jack searched cars, houses, attics, crawl spaces, fields, yards, and anywhere a suspect could hide or where drugs could be concealed. In his long and successful career, he conducted over one thousand drug and suspect searches and compiled a long list of captures. He was involved in the arrest or capture of 741 suspects. In addition, he located 41 pounds of drugs and seized $121,000 in cash.

Jack was also the first Salem Police canine to be awarded a department Medal of Valor. Jack received the Medal of Valor for his actions during the capture of a axe wielding suspect. Officer Cooper deployed Jack as the suspect raised the axe above his head in a threatening manner. The suspect swung at Jack, narrowly missing him with the blade but still knocking him to the ground when the handle struck him. The suspect attempted to flee but was quickly apprehended after Jack sprung back to his feet and gave chase. Jack quickly captured the suspect, knocking him to the ground and holding him for Officer Cooper. Jack's actions not only distracted the suspect's attention away from Officer Cooper, but they also kept Officer Cooper from having to use deadly force to stop the suspect. Jack was also rewarded with the Oregon Peace Officer's Association Purple Heart Award for the same incident.

Jack was a very successful police service dog that will forever be remembered as a Warrior! Rest in Peace!

Many of the canines that have been purchased by the Salem Police Department have been largely through the support and generosity of the community. Donations have played a very large part in our ability to maintain our canine program at the high level of proficiency to which our community has become accustomed. The Salem Police Department is asking for support in this very worthwhile investment in the safety of our community. Tax deductible donations can be dropped off at the Salem Police Department , mailed to the Salem Police Department Canine Unit, C/O The Salem Police Foundation, PO Box 2631, Salem, OR 97308 or through the Salem Police Foundation website at www.salempolicefoundation.blogspot.com

Questions can be directed to the K9 Unit supervisor, Sgt. Steve Smith, at 503-589-2001 ext 11306.

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