06/17/2026
🐾 In Loving Memory of K9 Trusty 🐾
It is with deep sadness that the Salem Police Department announces the sudden passing of K9 Trusty due to a medical condition he was being treated for.
During his brief but impactful three years of service, Trusty and his handler, Officer Whitaker, completed extensive training and participated in numerous deployments. Their dedicated efforts led to the successful the capture of multiple suspects and the recovery of crime-related evidence. Additionally Trusty successfully located six missing persons, helping reunite them with their loves ones.
Trusty and Officer Whitaker actively engaged with the public, earning affection throughout Salem by visiting seniors and children, participating in school presentations, and attending community events such as the Halloween Dress Rehearsal, Breakfast with the Chief, National Night Out, and Shop with a Cop.
Police canines become a beloved part of an officer's family. Please keep Officer Whitaker and his family in your thoughts during this difficult time. Trusty will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.