Howard Lake K-9 Officer Accidentally Put to Sleep

The Howard Lake Police Department is mourning the loss of one of the department’s service dog, who was accidentally put to sleep at the Humane Society.

After missing for two weeks, the department learned just two days ago what happened to Felony. For more than six years, Felony patrolled the streets of Howard Lake, serving as a narcotic and tracking canine for the police department.

Officer Darek Szczepanik was one of two handlers who worked with Felony.

"I was devastated,” said Szczepanik. “I couldn't believe it happened."

In his short time on the force, Felony helped seize $25,000 worth of narcotics and cash. Police Chief Tracy Vetruba says Felony, who tried escaping before, got out of his reinforced kennel on October 30. That day, an Animal Control Officer picked up Felony, but unfortunately didn't recognize the dog. He brought him to the Humane Society, where they waited the standard five days. He then failed an adoptability test and was put to sleep.

The Humane Society says this is tragic and we are very sorry for the loss of this valued canine member of the Howard Lake Police Department. Because the dog did not have any collar or microchip information they were unable to identify his owner.

In hindsight Chief Vetruba says a microchip would have been beneficial and now advocates for them not only for police service dogs but all pets.