K9 Rocky and Handler Honored with Purple Hearts for Bravery in Shootout

Bravery in the Line of Duty

• 🎯 In January 2025, Deputy Jesus Vargas was tragically killed while attempting to arrest a fugitive.
• ⚡ Hours later, K9 Rocky located the suspect, who then shot Rocky twice before being killed by law enforcement.
• 🤕 Deputy Lewis Deacon also sustained shrapnel wounds during the incident.

Recognition and Recovery

• 🏅 Attorney General Pam Bondi awarded both Deputy Deacon and K9 Rocky Purple Hearts for their bravery and injuries.
• 🏥 K9 Rocky underwent multiple operations and received dedicated care from his handler, Deputy Newsome, and other team members.
• ✅ Rocky has since recovered and passed all required tests, demonstrating his readiness to return to duty.
• 👏 The ceremony recognized the extraordinary courage shown by both the canine and his handler.