The Pomona Police Department is sorry to report the passing of Police K9 Duko. Duko was diagnosed with liver cancer in early December after a checkup at the veterinarian. Duko took a turn for the worse last week and the difficult decision was made to relieve him of his suffering.
Duko was a 10 year old Belgian Malinois who served the City of Pomona as Officer Paul Western's partner for seven years. During Duko's years of service with Officer Western, they were responsible for locating and apprehending 30 Felony Suspects. They also worked to take 7 firearms off the street.
Duko and Officer Western were also trained to locate and detect explosives. During his years of service, Duko located and cleared 10 suspicious packages or devices. Duko and Officer Western also had the responsibility of clearing areas of explosive devices for the U.S. Secret Service during President Obama’s visit to the City of Pomona. This team also provided a valuable service, regularly clearing the LA County Fairgrounds, the Rose Bowl and the Rose Parade route of explosive devices before events.
The loss of a K9 partner is a huge loss for the handler and the department, Duko will be missed.
