By Geraldine Gibbons
The Times-Tribune, Scranton, Pa.
SCRANTON, Pa. — For the second time in less than a week, the Scranton Police Department is mourning the death of a K-9 officer, one retired and one who was soon to begin his career with the department.
On. Dec. 4, the department released a statement saying they were “deeply saddened to announce the sudden passing of Police K-9 Scout on December 3, as a result of suffering an unexpected medical emergency.”
K-9 Scout had recently completed his K-9 academy training and was prepared to begin active duty alongside his handler, Officer Matthew Grippo. Although he had just hit the streets, K-9 Scout had already shown exceptional promise, dedication, and enthusiasm throughout his training, according to the release.
He was poised to become an outstanding asset to the department and the community he was set to serve.
Despite rapid veterinary intervention at PennVet – the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, K-9 Scout’s condition deteriorated quickly, police said.
“His loss has brought profound sadness to Officer Grippo and the entire Scranton Police Department,” the department said in the release. “K-9 Scout had just begun his journey, and his potential was evident from day one. He already was a valued part of our police family.”
On Monday, the department announced the death of K-9 Officer Gunner, who was retired.
K-9 Officer Gunner passed away at 10:30 Monday morning, in the arms of Scranton Police Officer Gerald Tallo, the department said in a release.
K9 Officer Gunner was trained in criminal investigation and narcotics, located over $1 million in drug seizures, assisted in the recovery of $500,000 cash and helped capture three fugitives.
The release noted that he tracked one of those fugitives for two miles.
“Gunner was a true dual-purpose K-9, serving from 2012 through his retirement in 2023. He was known throughout Lackawanna County as an immeasurable asset, and he will be missed,” the release concluded.
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