Orange County is mourning the loss of a canine officer.
Earlier this month, Czech Shepherd Blek passed away from an unexpected medical emergency while on duty. He was born in December 2017 and joined the Orange County Sheriff’s Office March 12, 2019 working alongside sergeant Justin Neal. Together, the two served the county through countless drug interdictions, tracking operations, searches, suspect apprehensions and community engagement events, including demonstrations.
Orange County Supervisors honored Blek with a resolution during Tuesday’s board meeting. The resolution paid homage to his “unwavering loyalty, courage and dedication through exemplary service” and affirmed that his legacy “will not be forgotten.”
“K9 Blek served with honor, loyalty and dedication until his very last day,” stated a press release from the sheriff’s office. “His watch has ended, but his legacy will live on through the lives he touches, the officers he protected and the community he faithfully served.”
Neal and his family, including wife Katelyn and their three children, accepted the resolution. Board of supervisors chair and District 5 supervisor Bryan Nicol said it was fitting for the family to be present.
“Not only was K9 Blek part of the Orange County Sheriff’s Office and county family, but he was also a part of your own,” Nicol said.
Sheriff Jason Smith said Neal and Blek were a team who spent countless hours protecting citizens and officers alike.
“Sgt. Neal should be proud of their time together and service to Orange County,” Smith said.
Neal thanked everyone for their support.
