Ceremonial end for retired South Lake Tahoe K9 Duke

It was a ceremonial send off today of a former four-legged protector of the South Lake Tahoe community.

Duke, a retired South Lake Tahoe K9, died on Sunday at the age of 12. He served the South Lake Tahoe Police Department from February 2006 until September 2012 with his handler, Officer Tony Broadfoot. During that time he was a phenomenal narcotics detection K9 that maintained continuous certification with the California Narcotics Canine Association and the Western States Police Canine association.

For his last ride, Duke road with SLTPD Sgt. Jason Cheney and Broadfoot to the Carson Valley Veterinarian Center where he was honored by his former department, co-workers, friends, family and members of the Douglas County Sheriff’s K-9 unit.

Duke will be cremated and his ashes will be given to the Broadfoot family.