HollyMatkinLeonardtown, MD – St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office (SMCSO) K9 Brock died on Jan. 18, after he sustained a severe injury while serving alongside his partner, Corporal William Rishel.
K9 Brock, a 4-year-old German shepherd, was training with recruits at the Southern Maryland Criminal Justice Academy when his injury occurred, the SMCSO said in an online statement.
He and Cpl. Rishel were navigating a metal staircase during an exercise, when K9 Brock’s leg slipped through a grate, causing a severe injury, according to the Officer Down Memorial Page.
K9 Brock was rushed for emergency medical care, and veterinary staff concluded that he would be unable to recover from his injury.
After consulting with medical personnel, the difficult decision was made to humanely euthanize K9 Brock.
K9 Brock, a three-year veteran of the SMCSO, was cross-trained in patrol functions and narcotics detection.
During his time with the SMCSO, K9 Brock participated in numerous demonstrations and investigations. He also assisted in educational programs and career day events for multiple schools in his jurisdiction.
K9 Brock resided with his partner and handler, Cpl. Rishel, during his entire service with the department.
“Sheriff K-9 Brock was a beloved member of the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office and our thoughts and prayers are with the members of the K-9 Unit and the Rishel family at this time,” the SMCSO said.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the SMCSO and Cpl. Rishel in the loss of K9 Brock.