Remembering Graffit: The loss of his K-9 partner

https://www.denver7.com/news/local-ne...

JEFFERSON COUNTY, Colo. – Teary-eyed and still dealing with the loss of his partner, the handler of a K-9 killed in the line of duty earlier this week thanked the community for their support and remembered a cheerful four-legged animal that was more than just a dog to him and his family.

K-9 Graffit was fatally shot by a man accused of driving into patrol cars at the Colorado School of Mines early Monday, according to officers with the Golden Police Department. Graffit had been released to track the suspect down before he was killed near W. 6th Avenue and 19th Street.

Speaking to news reporters on Thursday, K-9 handler Jefferson County Deputy Sheriff Zachary Oliver, accompanied by his wife, Alicia, remembered Graffit as a K-9 who loved nothing more than his calling and was full of energy.

“He meant the world to me,” Oliver said. “He was more than just a friend; he was my partner. I don't even know what it's going to look like now without him.”

Graffit, a German Shepherd who had just turned 10 years old, was from Budapest and bonded quickly with Oliver and his family, a process his handler said takes a lot of time and work.

“Maybe I gave him a little too many treats and desserts right away to get him to like me, but I knew when I got Graffit that it was going to be — I was hoping for a much longer time — but we were going to be together and be partners for a long, long time,” Oliver said.