News Summary
The North Charleston Police Department has dedicated a new patrol boat in memory of K9 Officer Mojo, who died in the line of duty in 2018. The 27-foot vessel will serve to honor Mojo’s bravery and dedication to community safety. The dedication ceremony was attended by community members and law enforcement, with Mojo’s handler expressing gratitude for the tribute. The boat is expected to keep Mojo’s legacy alive and remind the community of the sacrifices made by K9 officers.
North Charleston – The North Charleston Police Department has officially dedicated a new patrol boat to honor K9 Officer Mojo, who tragically lost his life in the line of duty on February 15, 2018. Mojo was struck and killed by an impaired driver while serving alongside his handler, PFC Brandon Van Ausdal. The patrol boat will carry Mojo’s name as it patrols local waterways, ensuring that his memory and service are honored by the community.
The dedicated vessel measures 27 feet in length and its naming serves to commemorate Mojo’s bravery and dedication to service. The ceremony took place on Friday morning outside North Charleston City Hall, where members of the community and law enforcement gathered to pay their respects. Deputy Chief Rick Keys led the dedication effort, expressing that naming the boat after Mojo was fitting, as it was meant to carry “some mojo to it.”
PFC Brandon Van Ausdal, Mojo’s handler during his service, was severely injured during the fatal incident. He expressed his deep gratitude for the boat being named after his K9 partner, recognizing it as a meaningful tribute to their shared experiences and the ultimate sacrifice made by Mojo. The dedication aims not only to honor Mojo but also to remind the community of the risks faced by law enforcement officers and their commitment to protecting the public.
The patrol boat’s designation has already captured public attention, with local boaters who have spotted it asking if it is indeed “Mojo’s boat.” This recognition highlights the community’s affection for Mojo and the impact he had during his service. Van Ausdal fondly remembered Mojo as a lovable K9 who took pride in his work, reflecting on the joy he brought to both the department and the community at large.
The North Charleston Police Department emphasizes their commitment to remembering fallen officers and their contributions. This new patrol boat stands as a symbol of that commitment, serving not only in its primary function of patrolling the waterways but also as a reminder of the importance of honoring those who have lost their lives while serving. The boat is expected to keep Mojo’s legacy alive among the residents of North Charleston and surrounding areas, ensuring that his story is shared with new generations.
Mojo’s dedication reflects a broader acknowledgment of the sacrifices made by K9 officers in the line of duty. The loss of such valued members of the police force often affects entire communities, and the naming of the patrol boat aims to strengthen those bonds by celebrating the life and service of officers like Mojo. As the North Charleston Police Department continues its work, Mojo’s legacy will undoubtedly remain a part of its daily mission.
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- ABC News 4
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- Wikipedia: K9 Officer
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- Google News: North Charleston Police
