Sheriff's Beloved K9 Euthanized

The Charleston County Sheriff has euthanized a retired police-service dog after health issues.

On watch from 2005 to 2010, Nitro was skilled in searching for fugitives, drugs and weapons. The dog had to be euthanized due to unspecified health issues, according to a department news release.

"He was an integral part of the K9 team, contributing to many arrests for drugs and weapons charges," said Major James Brady, sheriff's spokesman. "Nitro has tracked many criminals involved in bank robberies, homicides and other dangerous felons."

While off duty he was in the care of Sheriff's Sgt. James Brennan and his family, and was very much loved by the Brennan family, Major Brady said.

K9 Nitro retired in 2010. Upon his passing, the Consolidated Dispatch Center announced “All units stand by: End Tour of Duty K9 Nitro, Rest in Peace Warrior,” as a piercing silence followed, a typical sign off for deceased law enforcement officers.

The Charleston County Sheriff’s Office K-9 unit is comprised of two supervisors and six deputies along with 12 dogs capable of scent tracking, article searches and narcotics and explosive detection.