The 3-year-old German shepherd gave his life as the ultimate sacrifice.
His funeral Thursday was a touching testament to the value law enforcement places on police dogs who play a critical role in tracking suspects, sniffing out drugs and detecting bombs.
Rosco was murdered Sept. 7 while he chased after 17-year-old robbery suspect Kamyn Bright at a McDonald's in Fort Myers.
Bright had pulled out a gun and shot and killed Rosco. Police then killed Bright in an exchange of gunfire.
Rosco received full police honors including a 21-gun salute and an aviation unit flyover.
Fort Myers police Chief Doug Baker explained: "I realize Rosco is a dog, but he gave his life for our community, to serve our community."
There are 77.5 million dogs owned in the United States, according to the Humane Society of the United States.
About 39 percent of American households own dogs. Whether you own a dog or not, we know that they are often considered family members who provide joy and comfort.
In Rosco's case, he also provided a community service. Our condolences go especially to his human partner, Officer Glenn Thompson.
Law enforcement officers across the state honored Thompson and paid their respects to Rosco by attending the funeral at McGregor Baptist Church in Fort Myers.
There have been 1,498 canine-unit police and military dog deaths since 1962, and Rosco was one of 86 police dogs killed in the line of duty this year.
Rest in Peace.
The 3-year-old German shepherd gave his life as the ultimate sacrifice.
His funeral Thursday was a touching testament to the value law enforcement places on police dogs who play a critical role in tracking suspects, sniffing out drugs and detecting bombs.
Rosco was murdered Sept. 7 while he chased after 17-year-old robbery suspect Kamyn Bright at a McDonald's in Fort Myers.
Bright had pulled out a gun and shot and killed Rosco. Police then killed Bright in an exchange of gunfire.
Rosco received full police honors including a 21-gun salute and an aviation unit flyover.
Fort Myers police Chief Doug Baker explained: "I realize Rosco is a dog, but he gave his life for our community, to serve our community."
There are 77.5 million dogs owned in the United States, according to the Humane Society of the United States.
About 39 percent of American households own dogs. Whether you own a dog or not, we know that they are often considered family members who provide joy and comfort.
In Rosco's case, he also provided a community service. Our condolences go especially to his human partner, Officer Glenn Thompson.
Law enforcement officers across the state honored Thompson and paid their respects to Rosco by attending the funeral at McGregor Baptist Church in Fort Myers.
There have been 1,498 canine-unit police and military dog deaths since 1962, and Rosco was one of 86 police dogs killed in the line of duty this year.
Rest in Peace.
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