Tampa PD’s retired K9 Taz passes away: ‘He was a protector’
TAMPA, Fla. - The Tampa Police Department is mourning the loss of one of its beloved retired K9's.
Officials said K9 Taz passed away recently. TPD said the K9 served in the department alongside handler, Officer Britt Martinez, for nine years before he retired in 2021.
READ: Florida sheriff’s K9 killed in crash while chasing suspected drug trafficker: MDSO

Pictured: K9 Taz with TPD handler Britt Martinez. Courtesy: Tampa Police Department.
What they're saying:
"Taz was more than a police dog - he was a protector of the people and a best friend to Officer Britt Martinez," officials with the department said in a Facebook post on Monday.
The backstory:
The department said K9 Taz and Martinez shared countless memories while serving together, and were called for explosive detection and criminal apprehensions. They also helped with community outreach and Tampa's Super Bowl security.
During the pup's retirement, TPD said Taz embraced his golden years with car rides, his beloved Kong toy and patrolling his neighborhood on walks with Martinez.

Pictured: Members of TPD honoring K9 Taz after his passing. Courtesy: Tampa Police Department.
What came after:
The Motor Unit, Honor Guard and other members of TPD came together to help honor K9 Taz alongside the department's K9 Unit.
"Taz, thank you for your service. We honor you today and always," the Facebook post from TPD continued.
The Source: The information in this story was released by the Tampa Police Department.
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