K-9 Broko honored in senate after sacrifice in line of duty

HARTFORD, Conn. (WTNH) — State police stood alongside their loyal canine partners, recounting tales of bravery and sacrifice the animals are willing to make to protect their partners in the line of duty.

The occasion was to honor the memory of a remarkable dog named Broko, the first to receive the K-9 Medal of Valor.

Last December, as state police served a felony warrant in Stonington, a suspect opened fire without warning. K-9 Broko courageously leaped in front of his handler, taking the bullet meant for his human companion. State Police and officers from around the state came to escort his body from the scene, and on Thursday they were on the senate floor to testify.

During the Senate hearing, officers emphasized the profound bond between them and their canine partners.

“From the testimony that they have heard from officers or from the public, they realized that they are more than just pets, they’re actually a servant to the public,” said Jim Giansanti, capitol police officer.

“It’s really important that we honor them today, and we also learned from this,” said Sen. Bob Duff. “This is why we had the bill.”

Giansanti accompanied by his faithful partner Bocci, shared their experiences patrolling the Capitol grounds.

“Bocci is a sniffer, so he keeps all the visitors, staff, anybody that comes here safe by doing his job sniffing,” said Giansanti. “Then you have other dogs that are drug dogs, patrol dogs, computer dogs, currency dogs; you name it. They are there to do a job and protect the public.”

The Senate deliberated on a new bill proposed in honor of Broko. The legislation mandates that when a canine officer is killed in the line of duty, the suspect must pay restitution to the police department to fund the training of a new dog for a new handler.

This measure aims to ensure that the legacy of fallen heroes like Broko lives on through the continued service of their successors.

“When all the training and all the time is spent between the handler and his dog, we grow as a family and he becomes part of you. So it is a devastating thing if anything does happen to either partner,” said Giansanti.

With unanimous support from the Senate, the bill now moves to the House for further consideration.

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