THPD K-9s Shadow and Jasper receive heartfelt farewell

​Chief of Police John Plasse, of the Terre Haute Police Department , asked the group of people assembled for a memorial service at the headquarters parking lot this afternoon not to grieve the recent death of K-9 Officer Shadow, but rather to remember the happy life he lived while protecting the community. He noted that another devoted THPD K-9, Jasper, also passed away this year.

Sgt. Terry John remarked that Jasper was his partner and had passed away in January.

John reflected upon the friendship and service of Jasper and the deep bonds held between the dogs and their handlers.

"I miss him every day," John said.

He explained that he also had taken care of the aging and retired Shadow in his final weeks of life. He described the duo of the late Officer Brent Long and Shadow as a "special team in their short time together. Shadow died just after Thanksgiving Day.

"His strong will and loving personality carried on through sickness and hardship. Despite his health, his loving personality shined through," John said, adding, "Shadow's reunited with Brent, someday I'll be reunited with Jasper."

 K-9 Shadow suffered a gunshot wound to the face and had undergone multiple major surgeries since the 2011 shooting. His health continued to deteriorate with time, as Shadow also suffered from seizures, as well as other medical complications, Plasse had explained previously. Shadow's handler, Officer Brent Long, was killed in that shooting incident, while serving a warrant.

Plasse said he was pleased  the community came together for the memorial service held on a cold, December day. He suggested those in attendance  remember the good times, as he does in light of the deaths.

"We're here today to honor Shadow and Jasper. Their lives were dedicated to protecting this community. And, as we know, Shadow took a bullet doing that very such thing. We ask you not to be sad that Shadow's not with us anymore. I ask you to think of him and Brent [Long], up in heaven --- and they're both smiling, chasing tennis balls --- having a good time. That's how I remember Brent, that's how I remember Shadow," Plasse said, adding, "It's sad that we've lost both of them, but I know deep down that they're happy together, up above."

​Sgt. Todd Haller led a prayer in remembrance of Officers Shadow and Jasper.

"Throughout the Bible, God uses animals for deliverence , bondages and as sacrifices for humanity. He uses them to guide the way of His people, to help them maintain any situation. To those of us who walk with partners everyday, we understand the sacrifices they make -- and see the hand of the Creator in their ability to do so. Today, we honor and remember K-9 Shadow and Jasper and their sacrifice and service to the Terre Haute Police Department and our community," Haller said.

The THPD Honor Guard paid tribute to the K-9s and a bugler played taps. Chief Plasse presented John with a folded flag in memory of Shadow and Jasper.