Retired Mahwah Police K-9 Dome Dies

MAHWAH, NJ — Dome, the Police Department's K-9 who served with Officer Robert Rapp for nearly a decade, died Wednesday.

Dome was 11. He died after a brief illness, Police Chief James Batelli said.

Dome was the first K-9 to serve with Officer Robert Rapp and the department's fifth. The Czech shepherd participated in several significant narcotics investigations and was also called to assist other law enforcement agencies during his nine years with the department, Batelli said.

"Dome was a highly trained police dog, but also had a gentle disposition and was extremely popular with the children in the township," Batelli said, who noted Rapp would often bring his partner to schools and community groups. "He was a valued member of the department and will be deeply missed."

Dome lived with Rapp, his wife and their family at their Oakland home. Rapp said Dome was an integral part of his family and is extremely proud of the service Dome provided to the community, according to Batelli.

Local and county emergency responders expressed their condolences to the department and Rapp regarding Dome's death.

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Photo: Officer Robert Rapp and Dome./Mahwah Police Department