Cleveland Heights K9 Officer 'Rocky' Dies

CLEVELAND HEIGHTS, OH — Retired Cleveland Heights police K9 Rocky died on Thursday, the department announced. The K9 served the police department for six years before retiring in 2018.

Rocky was born in Germany in 2010. He joined the Cleveland Heights Police Department in 2012 and served on the force for six years. His partner was Robert Butler.

"I was lucky enough to work with Rocky during his time on the department and I can honestly say that he was a very valued member of the police department. His contributions to the department assisted officers in locating missing property, discovering dangerous drugs and tracking down wanted suspects. He was of great assistance to all members of the police department," Police Chief Annette Mecklenburg told Patch.

Rocky was a regular guest at community events like Safety Forces Night Out, block parties and Heights Schools functions. Mecklenburg said Rocky was warm and affectionate to the people he met.

"Everyone who met him fell in love with him instantly," Mecklenburg said. "He was a very special part of the CHPD family and we will miss him deeply."

Mecklenburg also paid tribute to Rocky with a post on social media. Some of her comments from that post are below.

"During his service on the police department he made numerous apprehensions and helped to keep the city safe," Mecklenburg said on Facebook. "Rocky enjoyed meeting and visiting with new people, especially children, and he touched many hearts during his time here. Rocky was a special part of the CHPD family and he will truly be missed."

"Our deepest condolences to his partner Robert Butler and his family on their loss. Rocky, thank you for your service and may you rest in peace," the police department said.