08/19/2026
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of retired Waco ISD Police K9 Dalton.
Dalton was born on May 10, 2015, in the Netherlands, and joined the Waco ISD Police Department in 2019, where he faithfully served alongside his handler, Sgt. Larry Martinez.
Dalton was a dual-purpose police K9 who dedicated his career to protecting students, staff and communities throughout Central Texas. He became an invaluable member of Waco ISD and a trusted partner to law enforcement agencies throughout McLennan County, including Waco, Hewitt, Lorena, McGregor, and others.
During his career, Dalton answered 800+ calls, participated in 50+ K9 demonstrations, helped seize 70+ pounds of illegal narcotics, weapons, and more than $20,000 in drug money, assisted in the apprehension of dangerous criminals, and helped locate two missing senior citizens and one missing child.
But Dalton's legacy cannot be measured by statistics alone.
He had an infectious personality and loved everyone he met. There wasn't a toy out there that Dalton didn't love. Whether working alongside officers, visiting with students, answering a call, or simply being himself at home, Dalton had a way of making an impact on everyone around him.
While Dalton was a dedicated police K9, he was also a beloved member of Sgt. Martinez's family. Away from the badge and uniform he was a companion, a friend, and a cherished member of the family.
The bond between a handler and their K9 is unlike any other. They work together, train together, answer calls together, and ultimately become family. For Sgt. Martinez and his family, Dalton wasn't simply a police dog — he was family.
Dalton's service made our schools, department, and communities safer. His courage and dedication helped take dangerous drugs, weapons, and criminals off our streets, while his loving personality brought smiles to countless people.
His paws may no longer walk the halls or patrol the streets, but his paw prints will remain on the hearts of everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.
Please keep Sgt. Martinez and his family, along with the entire Waco ISD Police Department family, in your thoughts and prayers as we grieve this tremendous loss.
For those wishing to send condolences or cards to Sgt. Martinez or the Waco ISD Police Department, they may be delivered or mailed to:
Waco ISD Police Department
2015 Alexander Avenue
Waco, Texas 76708
Thank you to everyone who supported Dalton, Sgt. Martinez, and the Waco ISD Police Department throughout the years.
Rest easy, Dalton.
You served faithfully.
You protected many.
You loved unconditionally.
You will never be forgotten.
K9 Dalton — Forever a Waco ISD Police K9. Forever a hero. Forever family.
