South Whitehall Police Chief Thomas Toth recently announced the passing of police K-9 Yaenkee.

The canine served the department from March 2004 until his retirement in December 2011.

Yaenkee, a male German shepherd, was born July 24, 2002. He joined Patrol Officer Kyle Golden in an initial two-month K-9 academy training program through Kromerhaus Kennels.

Later, Golden and Yaenkee continued training through the Progressive K-9 Academy.

Yaenkee was certified through the Eastern Police Canine Association and was certified as a patrol and narcotics detection K-9.

Officer Golden and Yaenkee conducted searches for suspects and contraband in South Whitehall and surrounding municipalities while also assisting state police, Lehigh County Drug Task Force and most area school districts.

The K-9 team participated in special events, such as bicycle safety and playground programs, Crime Watch, National Night Out and the Emergency Preparedness Fair.

Yaenkee had a pleasing temperament making him a favorite with children.

At a recent meeting, commissioners extended condolences to Officer Golden and everyone who knew Yaenkee.