Indianapolis, IN – Indiana State Police (ISP) K9 Votto died on March 23 after battling a six-month illness.
The 10-year-old German shepherd served his community for over eight years, WXIN reported.
K9 Votto fought the unspecified illness for six months before he was humanely euthanized late last month, according to the ISP.
“Votto was a valuable asset to the Indiana State Police and to the citizens of Indiana,” ISP Indianapolis District Commander Lieutenant Josh Watson told WXIN. “His efforts and desire to detect illegal narcotics undoubtedly saved lives. Votto will be missed.”
K9 Votto was born in Poland and came to the ISP after completing his training as a narcotics detection K9, WBIW reported.
He served alongside his human partner, ISP Master Trooper Adam Buchta.
K9 Votto was credited for intercepting $3.1 million in seized drug money, 5,000 pounds of marijuana, 83 pounds of heroin, 180 pounds of cocaine, and 230 pounds of methamphetamine during his storied career, WXIN reported.
Indiana State Police are remembering K9 Votto, who died last week after a six month illness 💔
Votto, a narcotics detection K9, spent more than 8 years with Trooper Adam Buchta. The two mostly worked on Indiana highways. pic.twitter.com/BlZPEswx1x
— WRTV Indianapolis (@wrtv) March 28, 2022
Our thoughts are with @IndStatePolice and Trooper Adam Buchta on the passing of K9 Votto after battling an illness the last six months. #EOW pic.twitter.com/oWKzz76yAQ
— FBI Indianapolis (@FBIIndianapolis) March 28, 2022
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Indiana State Police and Master Trooper Buchta in the loss of K9 Votto.