Today, I was honored to represent the Fraternal Order of Police at the Celebration of Life for SLED K9 Coba. The South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy gymnasium was beyond capacity. Chairs were full, and every space along the wall was covered.
As I watched people enter the gym, I noticed something that moved me deeply and filled me with pride. I saw law enforcement professionals from all over the state come together as one. So many different uniforms, so many different patches, so many different badges. Handshakes and hugs were abundant. Friendships were rekindled for this solemn occasion.
The complete unity of our profession was evident as we gathered to remember a courageous four-legged officer. SLED Chief Mark Keel’s cracking voice calling Coba a shield from God resonated deeply with everyone present.
At the entrance to the Academy on Broad River Road, a giant U.S. flag was draped from a fire department ladder truck, a fitting tribute to our fallen hero.
Hundreds gathered to honor Coba, who was killed in the line of duty on June 11th. Special Agent Cole Powell, along with his wife and children, were greeted by K-9s and their handlers from across the state as they made their way inside for the ceremony. The sight of so many coming together for Coba was truly moving.
“The Lord sent an angel. He sent Coba as that protective shield. That angel. So that our folks went home that day,” said SLED Chief Mark Keel.
The tragic events leading to Coba’s death are a stark reminder of the dangers our officers face every day. Deputies and SLED agents were attempting to serve a felony warrant in Prosperity when the suspect shot and killed four-year-old Coba. The suspect was then shot and disabled by law enforcement and taken to a nearby hospital for treatment, where he now faces additional criminal charges.
Special Agent Powell spoke of his friend and partner with deep emotion, recalling Coba’s fearless nature and the bond they shared. He also remembered Coba’s fellow K-9, Buddy Rico, who was killed in the line of duty last September. “It’s hard to understand why this happened again so soon after my brother Richard lost Rico. But I do understand one thing. Both of them were right where they were meant to be,” Powell said.
Governor Henry McMaster and Chief Keel presented American flags to Powell and his family during the ceremony. Governor McMaster’s words about the unique relationship between law officers and their dogs gave us all hope: “We all love our animals, love our dogs, but this relationship between these law officers and these dogs is unique. And it gives you hope that if only people could be like these animals.”
Chief Keel’s reflection on what could have been was poignant: “If you looked today and saw Cole’s family, Alex and CJ and McKinley… to think what could’ve been… we could’ve been planning an entirely different memorial service today.”
Coba and Special Agent Powell were together for over 300 deployments and 16 criminal apprehensions, a testament to their dedication and bravery.
Today, we united to honor the memory of K9 Coba. We stood together as one, remembering a courageous officer who gave his life protecting others. The strength and unity displayed today are a powerful reminder of the bond we share in this noble profession.
