K9 Down

K9 Graffit
Jefferson County Sheriff's Office, Colorado
End of Watch Monday, February 13, 2023
Breed German Shepherd
Gender Male
Age 8
Tour 7 years, 6 months
Cause Gunfire
Weapon Handgun
Offender In custody

K9 Graffit was shot and killed while assisting in the search for an armed subject.

Officers with the Golden Police Department and the Colorado School of Mines Police Department attempted to apprehend a man who was unconscious in his vehicle near 19th Street and Elm Street at about 12:15 am. When officers tried to wake him he drove away but stopped at 19th Street and Tangent Way. As officers approached him again he rammed several patrol cars in an attempt to escape. The officers broke the driver's window and put the car in park, but the subject fled on foot into a wooded area while pointing a handgun at them.

The Jefferson County Sheriff's Office Canine Unit joined the search for the armed subject. When K9 Graffit located the man, the subject fired multiple shots, striking K9 Graffit. A deputy returned fire but did not hit the man who continued to hide until surrendering around 5:00 am.

K9 Graffit had served with the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office for 7 1/2 years.

Rest in Peace …till our next roll call at the Rainbow Bridge!

In Memory of all Police Dogs

They handled themselves with beauty & grace

And who could ever forget that beautiful face

Whether at work; or at home; whatever the test

They always worked hard; and did their best

They were real champions; at work or at play

But their lives were cut short; suddenly one day

While working on the job with their partner one day

They put themselves out on a limb; out into harms way

They gave the ultimate sacrifice; any dog can give

They gave up their life; so someone could live

The best of their breed; as his partner and anyone would say

Many hearts are now broken; that he had to prove it this way

Now as the trees are blowing in the gentle breeze

The sun is shining; thru the leaves on the trees

The meadows are green; and the grass grows tall

Off in the distance they can see a waterfall

As they look over the falls; down through the creek

The water flows gently; as a rabbit sneaks a peek

Far up above; in the deep blue sky

They see the birds soar high; as they fly by

They see animals playing; at the bridge by a waterfall

Chasing each other; and just having a ball

They play all day; from morning to night

There's no more rain; just warm sunlight

Off in the distance; they hear trumpets blow

Then all the animals look up; and notice a bright glow

The harps would play and the angels would sing

As they know they've come home; they've earned their wings

We remember that they died; in the line of duty

And are now with the Lord; sharing in heaven's beauty

Off to the meadows now; where they can play and roam free

With an occasional rest stop; under a tall oak tree

No more bad guys to chase; or bullets to take

Just a run through the meadow; down to the lake

A quick splash in the water; then back to the shore

Then it's off to the forest; to go play some more

These special dogs are back home; up in heaven above

They're cradled in God's arm's; and covered with His love

We'll light a candle for all of them; in the dark of night

In loving memory of all; these very special knights

By John Quealy