The Upper Macungie Township Police Department has lost one of its dedicated officers, K-9 Hassan, who died May 19, in the care of his handler Officer Matthew R. Gardner.

"It is with great sadness and regret I inform you of the passing of Patrol Service Dog Hassan, who passed away this morning due to sudden and natural causes," Police Chief Edgardo Colón stated in an email to The Press. "Hassan, along with his partner, Officer Matthew R. Gardner, had proudly served the residents of Upper Macungie Township with courage, honor and distinction."

Hassan retired from service in September 2014.

According to Colón, Hassan, during his career, was responsible for the location and surrender of dozens of felony suspects including three felony apprehensions and he was instrumental in the location of numerous missing and lost persons.

"A portion of those locations resulted in the direct preservation of human life, as without timely location due to weather conditions, the survival of the persons involved would not have been probable; and as a cross trained explosives detection canine, Hassan was responsible for clearing numerous buildings, vehicles, parcels and open areas for explosive material and or weapons," Colón stated.

In addition to his work on active patrol, Colón said, Hassan was a staple within the local schools and was a favorite among D.A.R.E classes.

He was also a favored attraction at community oriented events and K-9 specific demonstrations.

"Hassan will be greatly missed but never forgotten," Colón said. "I ask you keep Officer Gardner and his family in your thoughts and prayers."

K-9 Bico, a Belgian Malinois, became Officer Gardner's partner in October 2014.

Details regarding a ceremony honoring Hassan's service will be announced in the near future.