COLUMBIA, S.C. — Tributes continue to pour in for SLED K9 Coba, who was shot and killed in the line of duty Tuesday. The tragic incident took place in Prosperity when investigators say an armed suspect opened fire at both SLED agents and Newberry deputies as they attempted to serve a warrant.
Newberry deputies said that Coba moved towards the suspect, who then shot and killed him. The deputies returned fire, injuring the suspect, who is expected to survive.
In light of Coba's passing, News19 set out to learn more about the training and the bond that these remarkable dogs build with their handlers and fellow officers.
“The reality is, and the term or phrase in the business is, 'we find what you fear,'” said Master Officer Ivan Birochak with the South Carolina Bureau of Protective Services. He and his two-and-a-half-year-old K9 partner, Georgie, understand the dangers of their job.
“With her being an explosion detection dog, there is always the possibility she will find something dangerous,” Birochak continued.
Georgie, a newer addition to the Bureau of Protective Services team, specializes in explosive detection and is also certified in firearms detection.
“At work, we start our day by walking the whole State House complex. She gets to not only exercise but stay active and engaged with her environment,” Birochak said.
Georgie ensures that no guns or explosives come near the State House or elected officials. Birochak is trained to read her reactions, whether it's an alert or an all-clear.
“We've had a package that she was able to clear for us, bringing peace of mind to the different mail handlers and recipients who were going to receive the package,” Birockah mentioned.
While Georgie's top priority is to protect civilians and other law enforcement officers, Birockah emphasized that their relationship goes far beyond work.
“She’s kenneled at my house, we go on vacation together, we go on trips together, so she’s definitely part of the family, and it's a 24/7 relationship,” he concluded.
Georgie replaced a previous K9 officer, Castor, who retired and unfortunately passed away from cancer.