UW Police mourn passing of department’s senior K9 officer

Mosely, the UW Police Department’s first K9 officer, passed away suddenly on March 3 at the age of 9. He joined the department in May 2002 and was the partner and faithful companion of Lt. Jason Whitney. He resided with Whitney and his family and died peacefully at home of an aggressive cancer that was diagnosed just the day before.

The German shepherd specialized in explosives detection and suspect tracking. He was also selected for advanced training and certification by the ATF and FBI K9 programs.

Mosely and Whitney responded to bomb threats and suspicious package sightings and tracked suspects. They were also called upon to provide dignitary protection during visits by the Dalai Lama, President Obama, former President Clinton and others.

Whitney was looking for a dog with a social nature because of the environments in which he would be working. Mosely lived up to his partner’s expectations and the pair received several commendations.