Information provided by UConn Officer Chris Worchel

It is with great sadness that we share the news of the passing of UConn K-9 Harper who passed away this week following a brief illness. UConn Officer Michael Rhodes was Harper’s handler; the two were paired with each other back in 2014.

Rhodes and Harper successfully passed the State Police patrol K-9 school and subsequently the State Police Narcotics certification school. This K-9 team faithfully served the UConn Police Department in many capacities, including: patrol work; community outreach; and representation of the department each year at the K-9 Olympics (including 09/18/21).

In addition to Officer Rhodes, many other officers at UConn formed a special connection with K-9 Harper, whether it be riding around with him on FTO, helping with training, being on a call together, or helping with the K9 Olympics.

There are few relationships as special as that of the bond between a K-9 and their handler. The time spent together and reciprocal trust is an amazing thing to witness. Please keep Officer Rhodes and his family close in your hearts as they cope with this difficult loss.

A formal remembrance for Harper will be organized at a later time.