CHERRY HILL — (May 2012)  A police K-9 that worked alongside Cherry Hill police officers for 10 years has died.

Chief Rick Del Campo announced today that K-9 Franko passed away on Tuesday.

Franko retired from the department in April 2010 after working alongside his handler Sgt. Joseph Kelly for 10 years.

Franko came to the department from Czechoslovakia where he was specially bred for police work.

Franko attended the Philadelphia Canine Academy and was a recipient of numerous awards and commendations throughout his term with the department, according to police.