Arlington Police Mourn Beloved K-9 Who Died From Cancer

ARLINGTON (CBS) - There is a painful hole within the Arlington Police Department after their beloved K-9 Dasty passed away from cancer.

The 12-year-old German shepherd spent his whole life with Arlington PD.

"He was an incredible asset here and he'll be sorely missed," said Arlington Police Sgt. David Martin.

Arlington streets are safer thanks to Dasty's 12-year career. Throughout more than 600 calls, he successfully tracked dangerous suspects, located guns, and led officers to large amounts of marijuana, cocaine, heroin, and thousands of dollars.

"We could call him and he could assist with any type of investigation," Sgt. Martin said. "K-9 Officer Dasty and his handler Officer Hogan were always available; if we had a car stop and needed him for an investigation. He'd be right out."

But Dasty's fellow officers are most proud of the way he represented their police force, and the difference he made in Arlington schools.

"He was an unbelievable K-9 officer but he was also an integral part of the community policing philosophy here at the Arlington Police," said Sgt. David Martin. "At schools doing demonstrations, meeting with kids, doing trainings, helping them understand how police are just regular people for the most part."

Back in 2013, Dasty was involved in the Watertown search for the Boston Marathon bombing suspects. He also helped to keep President Obama safe during his visit to Boston that week.

"We loved him," said Sgt. Martin. "We knew what he could bring to the table. We knew that in a moment's notice K-9 Officer Dasty would be there whenever we needed him."

A tribute is being planned for the town to say goodbye and thank you for his loyal service.