Massachusetts State Police Unveil Memorial for Fallen K-9 Frankie

Massachusetts State Police unveiled a life-size bronze statue memorializing K-9 Frankie, the first and only state police dog killed in the line of duty, at their general headquarters in Framingham. Frankie, a nine-year veteran and member of the Special Tactical Operations Team, was fatally shot during a 2022 standoff in Fitchburg while his handler attempted an arrest. The memorial honors Frankie's bravery and service, fulfilling a promise to remember fallen heroes and highlighting the significant contributions of K-9s and their handlers to law enforcement. Frankie's transport to the hospital after the shooting was the first under Nero’s Law, which enables injured police dogs to receive emergency medical treatment and transport. The statue, funded anonymously through the State Police Association of Massachusetts’ Benevolent Fund and crafted by Utah artisans, stands on a granite base with inscriptions celebrating Frankie's dedication. The memorial also recognizes Frankie's numerous awards and the lasting impact of his death on his handler, family, and colleagues.