Palestine Police Still Searching For Missing K-9 Officer

(Palestine, Texas) The search is ongoing for missing Palestine Police K-9 officer Hondo.

How And When Hondo Went Missing

Hondo went missing from an enclosure at his handler's residence in the Fort Houston neighborhood of Palestine, Texas, after a storm on Sunday, August 3. He was last seen in the area of Ft Houston Drive and Shadow Wood Drive. Palestine Police continue to follow up on leads and reported sightings, but none have led to his safe return yet.

Hondo is a black German Shepherd with gold and brown markings. At the time, he was not wearing a collar, but he is microchipped.

A Reward Is Being Offered For His Return

The news of his disappearance has a community looking for him, and a reward is being offered for his safe return. According to a Facebook posting, Carroll's Wrecker is offering a $5000 cash reward for Hondo's safe return to his handler or the Palestine Police Department upon verification that it is Hondo.

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Meanwhile, different animal organizations are spreading the word about the missing K-9 officer.

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The Palestine Police Department is encouraging its residents to continue to share his photo and stay alert. If you have any information or see a German Shepherd resembling Hondo, you are urged to call 903.729.2254 or text the information to 903.922.9426

Some residents feel that Hondo is safe and is being cared for by someone. If you of someone who has recently located a missing German Shepherd, you might want to alert them about the K-9 officer's missing status or call the Palestine Police Department.

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Why K-9 Units Are So Important

K-9 Hondo is vital to PPD because he helps officers carry out searches, tracking, and suspect apprehensions.

Police dogs like Hondo play a crucial role in modern law enforcement. K-9 units are quick and agile and can assist with suspect apprehensions easily. These dogs are trained to detect drugs, explosives, and other contraband.

K-9 units have been instrumental in search and rescue operations and protecting their officer handler. In many cases, dogs can be extremely helpful during arson investigations, too.