FREEHOLD: It is with the heaviest of hearts that the Monmouth County Sheriff’s Office announces the passing of K-9 Leo, beloved partner of Sgt. Michael DeLuca. The seven year old German Shepherd, who specialized in explosive detection and patrols passed away on December 26, after a brief battle from cancer.

“The Monmouth County Sheriff’s Office is deeply saddened over the passing of K-9 Leo, who was an outstanding member of the K-9 Unit,” said Sheriff Shaun Golden. “Sgt. DeLuca and K-9 Leo were extremely essential in bolstering homeland security capabilities by playing a vital role in protecting Monmouth County against criminal and terroristic threats, as well as assisting in the apprehension of suspects. Leo will be missed and never forgotten for his loyalty and service.”

Leo came to the sheriff’s office upon graduating from the Bergen County K-9 Training Academy. He began service in 2017 with Sgt. DeLuca. Throughout the course of their work, the team was called to 391 bomb calls, assisted with numerous patrols and seized two handguns. Sgt. DeLuca and Leo also conducted K-9 demos at schools and community events throughout Monmouth County.

“I’m so grateful to Sheriff Golden and the Monmouth County Sheriff’s Office for providing Leo and me with this great opportunity,” said Sgt. Michael DeLuca. “Leo was not only my partner, he was my best friend and a part of my family. The best part of my career was spent with him, assisting in the fight against crime, for the past six and a half years.”

The Monmouth County Sheriff’s Office K-9 Unit presently consists of 7 sheriff’s officers/K-9 handlers, which include one narcotics detection team, two explosive detection teams, one patrol/explosive and three tracking teams.