Shot Cape Cod Police Dog Recovering, 'Standing Strong'

YARMOUTH, MA — A police dog shot while searching for a career criminal on Cape Cod Thursday is "fighting back and standing strong," police said. Nero and his handler, Yarmouth police K-9 officer Sean Gannon, were shot by Thomas Latanowich in Barnstable, police said. Gannon was killed; Nero was seriously wounded.

The dog survived emergency surgery and was back up on his feet Saturday. Police called the dog a "hero."

Latanowich pleaded not guilty to a murder charge in Barnstable District Court. He was held without bail.

Gannon, who volunteered with a Cape Cod Big Brothers Big Sisters group, left behind a wife. A fundraiser was established for her.

Previous:

• Cape Cod Police Officer Gunned Down
• Cape Cod Police Officer Sean Gannon 'Epitome of Kindness'
• Slain Cape Cod Police Officer's Dog 'Stable' After Shooting
• Somerville 'Career Criminal' Arrested For Killing Yarmouth Cop
• Accused Massachusetts Cop Killer Pleads Not Guilty
• Cape Cod Police Officer Murder: Massachusetts 'Heartbroken'
• Cape Cod Career Criminal (111 Priors) Arrested in Stabbing: PD

Photos: Yarmouth police dog Nero recovering after being shot in Barnstable April 12, 2018. (Credit: Barnstable Police K9 Foundation (top) and Yarmouth Police Department (bottom))