The Washington County Sheriff’s Office said goodbye to one of its officers Wednesday.

Chief Deputy Shawn Ellingson announced that it is with a heavy heart that the Sheriff’s Office reports the passing of K9 Vasco. Vasco had recently been diagnosed with cancer, and he passed away on Wednesday afternoon surrounded by his handler Deputy Nolan Burke and his family. Vasco was born on September 5th, 2014 in Poland and he completed his training with Deputy Burke and had served as a County K9 since June 1st, 2015. Vasco’s work included helping the Sheriff’s Office detect drugs, track missing or wanted individuals, and protecting his partner and other Sheriff’s personnel. Ellingson says Vasco will be missed and they thank him for his selfless service his entire career.