West Deptford K-9 Judge carries his training sleeve as he is walked into St. Francis Veterinary Center in Woolwich by his owner and former partner Cpl. Mike Franks, Friday, Feb. 20, 2015. Judge, who was retired in August 2014, developed complications from Cushings Disease and was euthanized Friday. (Lori M. Nichols | South Jersey Times)
A few days ago we wrote about two brave K-9s named Sultan and how they were memorialized. Today we honor police dog Judge, who took his final walk with his partner, Cpl. Michael Franks, on Friday, January 20th.
Read our story about the two police dogs named Sultan
Officers from Judge’s West Deptford, New Jersey police department were joined by representatives from departments across South Jersey as the brave K-9 was honored one last time.
Awaiting them were officers and canines from nearly every police department in Gloucester County, as well as the Salem County Sheriff’s Department and the Atlantic County K-9 Academy.
“It’s about showing respect, but also the people who are here wanted to thank Judge for his service to the community,” said Glassboro Sgt. Dan Eliasen, who supervises his department’s K-9 division. “No one has forgotten what he’s done — and that includes protecting his partner and his community.”
Read the full story: N.J. police pay last respects as retired K-9 put down
During his career, police dog Judge was credited apprehending 152 suspects as well as recovering firearms, stolen vehicles and alleged drug money. Judge retired in 2014 after 7 years with the department. Officer Franks and his family were forced to make the difficult decision to euthanize Judge. The dog had contracted Cushings Disease and was losing his battle.
