Laredo, TX – Laredo Police Department Officer Arnoldo Dimas died of a sudden medical episode on Aug. 17, according to his department.

“It is with heavy heart that we share the unfortunate news of the sudden passing of one of our own today,” the Laredo Police Department said in a Facebook post. “Officer Dimas will be deeply missed by all who knew and served with him.”

A 24-year veteran of the force, Officer Dimas, 59, was widely regarded as a dedicated officer who had the ability to bring an attitude positivity to those around him.

"Arnoldo had the best attitude and professionalism that can be asked of any officer in uniform," Laredo Police Investigator Joe Baeza told the Laredo Morning Times. “He was always very welcoming.”

For the past two-and-one-half years, Officer Dimas had been assigned to handle the bailiff duties at Laredo Municipal Court.

“He left a mark in all of us,” Municipal Court Judge Rosie Cuellar said. “If we were feeling down for whatever reason, he always gave us confidence that everything was going to be okay.”

Cuellar also made it a point to speak with young defendants who came to the court, she said.

“His compassion for others and his outstanding professionalism towards policing will stand as a stellar example to us all,” the department’s Facebook post read.

"His love of service to this community was unwavering,” Laredo Assistant Police Chief Jesus Torres told the Laredo Morning Times.

“True to his profession, he was a man that endeavored excellence in performance and efficiency,” Chief Torres said. “Always seeking ways to make something good even greater. Safety, security and service were his main objective.”

He noted that Officer Dimas’ memory will endure in the hearts of those with whom he served.

"Officer Dimas was truly steadfast in making a difference,” Chief Torres explained. “He enriched the lives of those whom he served shoulder to shoulder with. Our hearts are heavy, and our line is one less, but his memory will endure."

The impact of Officer Dimas’ work in the community extended far beyond the station or the courtroom, Investigator Baeza said.

"There are people who are posting stories on social media indicating that he indeed went out of his way to help them. That's probably the greatest legacy that can be left behind in this line of work," he told the Laredo Morning Times. "We're certainly going to miss his exemplary presence amongst our ranks."

Officer Dimas leaves behind his wife of 22 years, Irma, as well as his children, Arnoldo and Ana, according to his obituary.

He is also survived by his mother, siblings, and many friends and extended family members.

Officer Dimas was laid to rest on Aug. 22.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of Laredo Police Officer Arnoldo Dimas, both blood and blue. Thank you for your service.

Rest easy, hero. We’ll hold the line from here.