The Nassau County Sheriff’s Office is heartbroken over the loss of K9 Hugo, who passed away unexpectedly due to a medical emergency on April 13, 2026.
K9 Hugo had been with our agency since September and was well on his way to completing K9 training to begin serving alongside our deputies in the community. Originally from Ohio and sourced through Sentinel Canine Solutions, Hugo was a 4-year-old German Shepherd with great promise.
He was dual-purpose, specializing in criminal apprehension and illegal narcotics detection. It’s a role that require immense dedication, intelligence, and courage. Hugo was already showing those qualities every day.
Sheriff Bill Leeper shared:
"K9 Hugo’s time with us was far too short, but the impact he made on his handler and our agency will never be forgotten. He represented the very best of what our K9 unit stands for - loyalty, courage, and an unwavering commitment to serve. Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone who had the privilege of working with him."
K9 Hugo will be deeply missed by his handler Deputy Clements, our agency, and all who knew him. His watch may have ended too soon, but his memory will live on.
