Anyone who has ever had a dog who died knows the feeling going through the Stafford Township Police Department this week after the passing of retired K-9 Raven.

Raven retired from the Stafford Township Police K-9 Unit in July after six years of dedicated service with her handler, Patrolman Donald Haines.

When Raven retired last summer, the Stafford Township Council recognized Raven with a proclamation for all her hard work over the years, according to a Facebook post.

At the time, Mayor Greg Myhre said Raven had been a central part of hundreds of investigations.

"Her specialty was narcotics, and she often discovered illegal drugs and paraphernalia, keeping the community safe. She became not only a part of the Stafford Township Police Department family but also a beloved member of our community".

Patrolman Haines told the story of the time that Raven discovered marijuana in a vehicle, which led to police finding a stolen and loaded handgun in the center console, he said. Police later found that the vehicle was also stolen.

"That was definitely a highlight for her", Haines said. "That was a proud dad moment for me."

Our condolences to Officer Haines and to the Stafford Twp Police.

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