Retired Hamden Police K-9 Hank Dies

HAMDEN, CT — The Hamden Police Department is mourning the loss of retired K-9 “Hank,” who passed away on Dec. 14. Hank was born in Hungary in 2006 and was partnered with Hamden Police Officer Michael Nawrocki in 2009, according to police. Hank was trained as a Patrol/Narcotics dog and maintained annual certification with the National Police Canine Association (NPCA) in Narcotics detection, and Patrol dog disciplines including Building Search, Handler Protection, Tracking, and Apprehension, police said.

“During an active and productive career ‘Hank’ was well known in the community for his presence as a patrol unit, and he enjoyed training, and performing K9 demonstrations for schools and other organizations,” police wrote in a post on Facebook. “Among his accomplishments K9 Hank and his partner were named Officer of the Year in 2012. K9 Hank was retired from service in January of 2016. He enjoyed the rest of his life with Sgt Nawrocki and loved being showered with affection by all his family and friends.

“Hank was loyal partner, and the Hamden Police Department as well as Hank's family and friends are proud to have had him serve this community.”

Photos via the Hamden Police Department