MIDDLEBORO —  Middleborough Police Department’s K-9 Phaelan passed away Monday, Aug. 15, Police Chief Joseph Perkins regretfully informed the public.

K-9 Phaelan, a Belgian Malinois, joined the Middleboro Police Department in 2012 as the department’s second K-9. He was paired with Sgt. Jerry Donahue, who is credited with implementing the Middleboro Police Department’s first K-9 program in 2002.

K-9 Phaelan was trained by the Plymouth County Sheriff’s Department K-9 Training Program and the Massachusetts Department of Correction K-9 Training Program.

While serving the department, he was credited with locating and rescuing numerous missing persons and assisting with tracking suspects, among other achievements.

K-9 Phaelan officially retired from all police work in April as the Middleboro Police Department welcomed its newest K-9 team, K-9 handler Officer Terry Meleski and K-9 Rex, a German Shepherd.

Upon his retirement, K-9 Phaelan lived happily with Sgt. Donahue and his family. 

“It saddens us greatly to announce the passing of K-9 Phaelan as he was a beloved member of our department who served by our side valiantly during his years in service,” Perkins said. “Our hearts go out to Sgt. Donahue and his loved ones during this extremely tough time. K-9 Phaelan was an irreplaceable member of their family. He will be greatly missed by our department and the community as a whole.”