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'Once In A Lifetime Partner': Holyoke Police Mourning Loss Of Beloved K9

A police dog who survived a stabbing and viscous beating has died following nine years of service in Hampden County.

Jori, a police dog who had served in Holyoke for nine years, died late last month after a brief illness.

Jori, a police dog who had served in Holyoke for nine years, died late last month after a brief illness.

Photo Credit: Holyoke Police Department

Jori died on June 29 after a brief illness, the Holyoke Police Department announced on Facebook. The beloved pooch earned the medal of merit after he survived an attack in 2015 that veterinarians thought was likely fatal. 

Jori joined the Holyoke police force in 2013 and was partnered with officer Ryan Tabb. He helped sniff out drugs and weapons, find missing people, search for lost items, and protect his colleagues and community. 

But he will be remembered for more than that, police said.

At work, Jori was diligent, determined, and a frequently sought after resource by the officers he worked with and surrounding communities. He was a highly intelligent K9 who worked hard when called upon, yet also possessed the ability to shift his mindset to being a playful boy. He delighted in playing ball outside and loved receiving pats and praise from his handler and his adoring family.Off duty, he brought joy to everyone he encountered, greeting neighbors and friends on walks with his big smile, teaching many that Police K9s can have a softer side, a testament to the constant efforts and bond he shared with his handler, Officer Tabb.

Holyoke police offered their condolences to the Tabb family and gave Jori his final orders. 

"You will be sadly missed by all, especially your best friend and partner, Officer Ryan Tabb," police said in the social media post. "Rest easy, boy."

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