02/17/2024
It's the fear we live with every single day, but when it hits home and to one of your absolute favorite K9 Teams it's unbelievably gut wrenching. Please keep LEO, Justin, and the entire MCSO K9 Family in your thoughts and prayers.
PLEASE PRAY FOR K-9 "LEO"
Citizens, today, our hearts are heavy as we ask for your prayers and support for our brave K-9 “Leo.” In the line of duty, Leo was shot while fearlessly serving to protect our community.
This morning, at approximately 9 am, our deputies responded to a call in the 900 block of NE 144th Court in Silver Springs. It was in response to a situation involving a suspect accused of Battery by Strangulation. The suspect was located in the backyard, where he initiated gunfire towards our deputies, injuring K-9 Leo in the exchange. Responding with necessary force, deputies returned fire, resulting in the apprehension of the suspect, who was transported to the hospital, where he was pronounced deceased.
Leo has been rushed to UF Veterinary Hospital, where their dedicated team is doing everything possible to save him; we hold onto hope and pray for his recovery.
Leo isn't just a member of our force; he's family. His loyalty, courage, and unwavering dedication to his duty embody the very essence of what it means to serve and protect. His sacrifice today reminds us of the dangers our deputies face each day to keep our community safe.
Let's rally together as a community, sending love and prayers to K-9 Leo and his handler.
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