South Carolina Fraternal Order of Police

South Carolina Law Enforcement Division - SLED

Honoring Unity: A Tribute to SLED K9 Coba

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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.

Another Deadly Reminder of the Need for Hyco’s/Fargo’s Law

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On a somber Tuesday in Newberry County, the law enforcement community suffered a profound loss. SLED K9 Coba, a four-year-old Belgian Malinois mix, was killed in the line of duty while serving alongside Special Agent Richard “Cole” Powell. This tragic event underscores the inherent dangers faced by our K9 units and the urgent need for enhanced legal protections, such as those proposed in Hyco & Fargo’s Law (most recently House Bill 3247).

The Incident

K9 Coba’s death occurred during a high-risk operation to serve a fugitive felony warrant in the Prosperity area. As deputies and SLED agents approached the suspect, who was hiding inside a family member’s home, the suspect opened fire. K9 Coba bravely confronted the armed individual but was fatally shot. Deputies returned fire, injuring the suspect, who was subsequently taken to the hospital for treatment. Several deputies sustained minor injuries in the encounter.

Governor Henry McMaster expressed his condolences, stating, “Today, we tragically lost SLED K9 Agent Coba in the line of duty during the apprehension of an armed subject in Newberry County. We are grateful for our K9s, their handlers, and all our law enforcement officers who put their lives at risk each and every day.”

The Call for Hyco & Fargo’s Law

The passing of K9 Coba is not an isolated incident but a stark reminder of the perils faced by K9 officers. It highlights the critical need for the passage of Hyco & Fargo’s Law . This legislation aims to provide enhanced protection and justice for K9 units injured or killed in the line of duty.

Named in honor of K9 officers Hyco and Fargo, who also lost their lives while protecting our communities, this bill proposes stricter penalties for those who harm law enforcement animals. By enacting this law, we can ensure that perpetrators face significant consequences, thereby deterring such heinous acts in the future.

Legislative Process and Next Steps

Unfortunately, House Bill 3247 was not passed during the last legislative session and will need to be reintroduced in the next session. The process for a bill to become law in South Carolina involves several steps, including introduction, committee review, and approvals by both legislative chambers, followed by the governor’s signature. This bill will once again go through these stages, and its success will depend on continued support from lawmakers and the public.

Honoring K9 Coba’s Service

K9 Coba joined SLED in 2021 and quickly became an invaluable member of the team, living and working with Special Agent Powell. His dedication and bravery were evident in every mission, and his loss is deeply felt across the law enforcement community. Details regarding a memorial service will be announced by SLED in due course, providing an opportunity for the community to honor Coba’s sacrifice.

A Collective Responsibility

As we mourn the loss of K9 Coba, we must also take collective action to support the passage of Hyco & Fargo’s Law. This legislation is essential to safeguard our K9 officers, who play a crucial role in law enforcement operations. Their protection ensures the safety of their handlers and the broader community they serve.

We urge lawmakers, law enforcement officials, and the public to advocate for House Bill 3247 when it is reintroduced. By doing so, we can honor the memory of K9 Coba and all fallen K9 officers, ensuring their sacrifices are not in vain.

Let us stand united in our commitment to protecting those who protect us. The passage of Hyco & Fargo’s Law is a step towards a safer and more just society for all.