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An Alabama Department of Corrections K-9 that was treated at the Auburn University Clinic died Saturday after becoming ill during a contraband search at a state corrections facility in Elmore County last Thursday.

Jake, the corrections K-9, was reported deceased at about 3 p.m. Saturday by clinical staff after developing pneumonia and suffering from abnormal vital signs, the Department of Corrections said in a Monday afternoon news release.

Sgt. Quinton Jones, Jake’s handler, said Jake was performing his search at Staton Correctional Facility when he suddenly became ill after finding a substance Thursday. An initial test of the substance identified it as synthetic marijuana.

Further analysis of the narcotic discovered is pending.

Gov. Kay Ivey issued a commendation honoring Jake’s service Monday and voiced her sympathy after hearing about the K-9’s passing.

“I was saddened to hear that one of the corrections K-9s, Jake, lost his life over the weekend,” Ivey said. “This K-9 died in service to public safety and in service to the state.

"Jake is an example of the goodness, the loyalty and service that our four-legged friends provide.”

The incident