'Rest In Peace, Buddy': Officers Say Final Goodbye To K9 Baro

Newtown police -- accompanied by K9 officers from many surrounding towns -- gathered outside Fairfield Hills Thursday afternoon for a heartfelt memorial ceremony for Baro, the K9 who passed away in June after years of serving the department.

Baro served Newtown for eight years, including during police response to the Dec. 14 shooting. He came to the department from the Czech Republic as a puppy and retired in June after suffering from a heart condition.

"When we had to put Baro down, it was like losing one of us," said Officer Matt Hayes, who worked with Baro. "Seeing the smiles he brought to everybody's face ... He was a source of comfort for the guys whenever we were down."

Officer Felicia Figol, who served as Baro's partner during his time in the Newtown Police Department, read a poem for the K9 written by dispatcher Sheri Citrone.

New K9 Saint Michael was sworn in following the ceremony for Baro. Figol will train and work alongside St. Michael.