Candy, a dedicated German Shepherd with an impressive decade-long tenure as the Virginia Beach Sheriff’s Office’s inaugural narcotics-detection K9, faced a heartbreaking diagnosis just last week. The ailment, which progressed rapidly, prematurely ended her illustrious career at the age of 11. In a heartfelt and emotional farewell, the law enforcement community bid adieu to a cherished colleague who was more than just a four-legged officer.
Candy, an integral part of the Virginia Beach Sheriff’s Office K9 unit, was set to retire this year after serving the community with distinction. The news of her illness cast a pall over her impending retirement, a retirement that would now take on a different, more poignant meaning.
On a sombre Monday morning, deputies gathered in the corridors of the Virginia Beach Correctional Center to pay their final respects to Candy, the trailblazing narcotics-detection dog. She had been the first of her kind in the Sheriff’s Office, boasting a unique certification in detecting marijuana, a skill that had played a pivotal role in ensuring the safety and security of the correctional centre and the local community.
Candy, clutching her beloved tennis ball, embarked on her last journey, symbolizing her unwavering commitment to her duty. Alongside her was her devoted family, Master Deputy II Anthony “Tony” Natalzia, his wife, and their three children. This emotional walkout was a testament to the close-knit bonds that had formed within the K9 unit, a family that extended beyond the human officers.
Sheriff Rocky Holcomb, with a heavy heart, expressed his deep gratitude for Candy’s unwavering service. Her legacy as the only K9 certified in detecting marijuana was particularly significant, considering the changing legal landscape in Virginia regarding the use of marijuana. While her retirement was tinged with sadness, the Sheriff recognized her invaluable contributions to the safety of the correctional centre and the community.
As Candy bid farewell to her fellow deputies and the community she had served, her memory and the legacy of her dedicated service will forever echo within the Virginia Beach Sheriff’s Office. She may have had to retire early due to illness, but her impact and the bond she shared with her human colleagues will endure, reminding everyone of her unwavering dedication and the unique skills she brought to the law enforcement team.
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