Judge, a retired New Jersey K-9 Officer, received a well-deserved soldier’s salute from a police station. He had 280 deployments, 152 suspect arrests, and helped recover three stolen vehicles, three firearms, and roughly $47,000 in purported money, all of which merited this hero’s honor.
After 7 years of service at the West Deptford Police Department in New Jersey, as well as a grueling struggle with Cushing’s Disease, it was time to say farewell. Cpl. Michael Franks was confronted with the growing veterinary bills of Judge, his buddy, partner and protector!
When the bill approached $10,000, a GoFundMe campaign was established. The community banded together and raised approximately $12,000 to assist Cpl. Franks and his family with their financial obligations. Judge, a retired K-9 officer, had to be put down after a surgery and quick deterioration of his condition.
It’s hard enough to say goodbye to a furry family member. But when he is also a soldier, your partner and someone who risked his life for you and your community, the loss is horrible and devastating. The only consolation would be the incredible support demonstrated by the huge audience and the touching respect of the heroes. With the presence of more than 90 officials from several New Jersey police departments, the respect shown will hopefully provide comfort and a lasting sense of respect for the judiciary and sacrifice.
The judge, a German shepherd who worked for many hours with the West Deptford Police Department, is shown below.
Honorary Judge and his leader, Cpl. Michael Franks, pictured below. Franks spent thousands of his own funds to keep Judge alive for as long as possible.
The judge was one of the largest K-9 officers West Deptford police have ever had, assisting in a number of cases and assisting in the arrest of offenders.
As the Judge finally approached, police from other stations lined up with their K-9 partners to pay their respects.
Family members sobbing to show how much the Judge will be missing. He wasn’t just a K-9 cop; he was also a family pet, providing love and support to his host family.
As he comes approaching the door of St. Francis Veterinary Center, Judge takes his farewell mouthful!
They are frequently seen as toys, and the dogs cling to them tenaciously. As you can see, this is a difficult time for everyone, especially Cpl. Franks.
The officers were confident that the Judge would be able to enter the veterinary clinic. And he was right. They let him take one last walk in front of all his friends.
He strolled towards the veterinary center’s door, his sleeve in tow. Judge was well regarded and will be sorely missed…
