By Staff
PARTNERS n Breston is shown here with his handler, Officer Ricky Roberts. File photo
By Steve Gillespie/The Meridian Star
June 3, 2001
Breston, the senior dog of the Meridian Police Department's K-9 unit, will be buried today amid full departmental honors after a life devoted to protecting the public.
Breston died Saturday at the home of his handler, Officer Ricky Roberts. Full officer's funeral services for Breston will be held today at 4 p.m. in the Municipal Courtroom at the police department. Visitation will be held 30 minutes prior to the service and burial will be in Roberts Cemetery with the Meridian Police Department in charge of arrangements.
The Malinois had been injured about a year and a-half ago in an automobile accident while on duty. The dog had surgery to repair a tear in his colon and damage to his spleen. Roberts said complications from the injuries and the dog's age caught up with him. Breston would have been 10 years old in September.
Roberts said Breston was smart, well-trained and the best partner he's had during 14 years in the department.
Roberts said Breston was an outstanding, respected member of the department who was loved by many. "His assistance in the drug unit helped keep thousands of dollars worth of drugs off the street," Roberts said.
Breston began training and service with Roberts in 1994. He was trained in narcotics protection, handler protection, patrol, article search, crowd control and tracking.
Steve Gillespie is a staff writer for The Meridian Star. Call him at 693-1551, ext. 3233, or e-mail him at sgillespie@themeridianstar.com.