TWO RETIRED SYRACUSE POLICE K9S PASS AWAY AFTER YEARS OF DISTINGUISHED SERVICE

It is with deep sadness that the Syracuse Police Department announces the passing of two retired K9 officers, K9 Nik and K9 Jack. The news was shared today through the Syracuse Police Department's official Facebook page.

K9 Nik, who was purchased and assigned to Sergeant Szakacs of the Syracuse Police Department's K9 Unit in the spring of 2013, passed away on December 28th, 2023. K9 Nik underwent intensive training at the DCJS Patrol/Tracking school and Detector school to fulfill his duty as a Police K9. Throughout his career, K9 Nik, alongside Sergeant Szakacs, diligently patrolled the streets of Syracuse, ensuring the safety of its residents and fighting against criminal activities. Accomplishing numerous tasks, K9 Nik conducted 140 building searches, 14 tracks, 19 criminal apprehensions, 31 instances of Officer protection, and 173 explosive detection sweeps. After serving the City of Syracuse for approximately seven years, K9 Nik retired with his handler in 2019.Similarly, K9 Jack, procured and assigned to Officer Quick of the Syracuse Police Department's K9 Unit in the spring of 2015, also passed away on December 28th, 2023. Officer Quick and K9 Jack completed the DCJS Patrol/Tracking school and Detector school in the same year, becoming an efficient team on the streets of Syracuse. With K9 Jack being one of the largest dogs in the unit, he predominantly worked alongside the Syracuse PD's SWAT team. This formidable duo executed high-risk search warrants, often being the first to enter, ensuring the safety of the SWAT Operators. Throughout his career, K9 Jack carried out 122 building searches, 6 tracks, 19 criminal apprehensions, 30 instances of Officer protection, and 216 explosive detection sweeps. After serving for many years, K9 Jack was retired in 2023, allowing Officer Quick to take on a new partner, K9 Neo. It is heartbreaking to note that K9 Jack passed away on his 10th birthday.Both K9 Nik and K9 Jack played crucial roles within the K9 Unit and worked alongside exceptional handlers and trainers. Their absence will be deeply felt by the K9 Unit, the Syracuse Police Department, and the entire City of Syracuse. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to these brave and dedicated four-legged officers for their years of service in safeguarding their handlers, fellow officers, and the City of Syracuse. You will be greatly missed.