Staff and friends said farewell to CDCR K-9 Tucker in a memorial service Dec. 14.
Wasco State Prison-Reception Center (WSP-RC) staff, along with Central Region K-9 Unit officers and the family of Tucker’s handler, H. Sangha, gathered to honor the K-9s service to the department.
Tucker lost a tough fight with cancer, passing away Nov. 28. Offering a eulogy, Investigative Services Unit (ISU) Lt. I. Leyva spoke highly of Tucker’s reputation among staff and incarcerated populations.
He recounted a time when ISU was asked to assist with searching a local community correctional facility. An incarcerated person asked, “That black dog ain’t with you guys today, is he?”
Stories shared by Leyva, Central Region K-9 Unit Sgt. Brandon Long and Warden Heather Shirley speak volumes about the work Tucker did on behalf of California.
Tucker has been credited with discovering over $4.4 million worth of contraband throughout his CDCR career.
The WSP-RC honor guard provided ceremonial honors for Tucker. Also in attendance were Marion Spearman, Associate Director of General Population-Males, and Kern Valley State Prison Warden C. Pfeiffer.
Submitted by Lt. Joshua Farley

Read more tributes to staff and retirees who have passed away.