Hanford, CA – The Kings County Sheriff’s Office is mourning the loss of two longtime members of its K-9 Unit after the deaths of K-9 Titan and K-9 Willie this week, a loss officials say is being felt across the department and the community.
According to the Kings County Sheriff’s Office, both dogs passed away due to separate, non-line-of-duty health-related issues. The department confirmed the deaths Wednesday, saying Titan and Willie had each served the county with “distinction, commitment, and extraordinary loyalty” throughout their careers.
The K-9s were instrumental in tracking suspects, locating narcotics, and assisting deputies during high-risk situations across Kings County and the greater Central Valley. Officials emphasized that the dogs also played a vital role in keeping both their handlers and the public safe.
“The loss of a working dog is like losing a deputy — they are part of our family and integral to our operations,” Sheriff Dave Putnam said in a statement. “Titan and Willie dedicated their lives to keeping our community safe. Their bravery and loyalty were unmatched, and they will be profoundly missed by their handlers, our department, and the citizens they protected.”
The Sheriff’s Office extended its deepest sympathies to the K-9 handlers and their families, acknowledging the close bond formed through years of service and daily work alongside the dogs.
Officials also asked the community to keep the K-9 Unit and its handlers in their thoughts during what they described as a difficult and emotional time for the department.
The Sheriff’s Office said the legacy of service left behind by Titan and Willie will continue to inspire future K-9 teams and remain an enduring part of the agency’s history.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness. Follow us on Instagram & Facebook for more relevant news stories and SUPPORT LOCAL INDEPENDENT NEWS! Have a tip? Message us!
