K-9 paralyzed by criminal has died

May 2, 2013 8:18 AM

Major, the police dog — Major, a retired Roseville police dog, was the guest of honor at a bill-signing ceremony at the Minnesota Capitol in this file photo from March 22, 2011. The law implements stiffer penalties for those who injure or kill police dogs in the line of duty. Major was euthanized this week after developing serious health problems. He used a wheeled sling to get around after being paralyzed in 2010 after an attack by a burglary suspect.
MPR Photo/Tom Scheck

ROSEVILLE, Minn. (AP) -- The Roseville police dog partially paralyzed by a criminal has died at age 11.

Officer John Jorgensen says his K-9 partner, Major, was euthanized this week at the University of Minnesota Veterinary Medical Center after contracting a bladder infection and pneumonia.

Jorgensen says Major, a German shepherd, had an active law enforcement career. He had pots broken over his head, was punched and kicked by suspects and nearly drowned chasing a man into a lake.

In 2010, a burglary suspect repeatedly stabbed the dog, leaving him paralyzed in his hind quarters. Major used a sling with wheels to get around in retirement.

The St. Paul Pioneer Press says Major inspired new legislation in 2011 that made any assault that substantially harmed a police dog a felony.

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Information from: St. Paul Pioneer Press

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