Sarasota K9 Officer Dies Unexpectedly While On Duty: Police

SARASOTA, FL — Bandi, a K9 officer, died unexpectedly while on duty Thursday, Sarasota police said in a news release.

A German Shepard born in Hungary in 2014, Bandi has been with the Sarasota Police Department since 2016, when he was paired with his handler, Sgt. Jonathan Misiewicz.

Bandi was certified in explosive odor detection, tracking, article search and apprehension, police said.

While the cause of death has not yet been officially determined, veterinarians believe that Bandi died from natural causes.

“Bandi was an exceptional police dog and faithful partner to Sgt. Misiewicz. Please join us in keeping the Misiewicz family in your thoughts,” SPD said.