Community Mourning the Loss of Beloved Ulster County Police Dog

A police department in Ulster County is mourning the loss of one of its most beloved members.

Beloved Police Dog Passes Away in Ulster County, NY

According to the Town of Ulster Police Department, one of its longtime police dogs has died. Chief Kyle Berardi made the announcement on Facebook, saying it is with profound sadness that the department is mourning the passing of retired K-9 Castor, a loyal police dog whose years of service left a lasting impact on both the department and the community he helped protect.

Town Of Ulster Police Dog Castor Passes Away

Castor served with the Town of Ulster Police Department from 2013 until his retirement in 2022. During those nine years, he worked side-by-side with his handler, Sergeant Garvila, forming the kind of partnership that only develops through years of training, trust, and countless hours spent together in the line of duty.

As a member of the Ulster County K-9 Training Group, Castor played an important role not only within the department but alongside other law enforcement agencies throughout the region. Police K-9s are trained to assist with everything from tracking suspects and locating missing people to detecting illegal drugs and helping keep officers and the public safe.

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While Castor officially retired four years ago, the bond he shared with Sergeant Garvila never ended. Like many retired police dogs, Castor spent his retirement enjoying a quieter life after years of dedicated service to his community.

Unwavering Dedication to the Town of Ulster

In announcing his passing, Chief Berardi thanked Castor for his unwavering dedication and commitment to the department and the Town of Ulster.

The department also asked the community to keep Sergeant Garvila and his family in their thoughts as they grieve the loss of not just a partner, but a cherished member of their family.

The loss of a police K-9 is deeply felt throughout the law enforcement community. These highly trained dogs serve with courage, loyalty, and unwavering devotion, asking for nothing more than the chance to work alongside the officers they trust.

Castor's legacy of service and dedication will not be forgotten, and his years protecting the Town of Ulster will always be remembered.