In the relentless battle against the opioid crisis that has claimed countless lives in the United States, there are unsung heroes working tirelessly to stem the tide of dangerous substances entering the country. 

Among them is Customs and Border Protection (CBP) K-9 Enforcement Officer Jorge Aquino and his loyal partner, K-9 Mann, a male red-haired German Shepherd, who were honored as heroes at the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) Humane Awards Luncheon on October 12 in New York City.

Every year, the ASPCA awards people and animal heroes who go above and beyond to champion animal welfare and make a difference in the lives of others. This year, an expert ASPCA committee selected recipients in five categories, including the Dog of the Year, the Equine Welfare Award, the Public Service Award, the Farm Animal Welfare Award and the Henry Bergh Award, which is given to an individual or institution exhibiting exceptional leadership, compassion, and commitment to animal welfare.

Officer Aquino and K-9, who operate out of the Area Port of Nogales, Arizona, received the Public Service Award at the event. On the job, the pair play a pivotal role in preventing fentanyl, among other controlled substances, from entering the country. To date, their hard work includes seizing 153 pounds of cocaine, 122 pounds of heroin and an astounding 943 pounds of fentanyl — which is the equivalent of more than 3.7 million capsules.

Fentanyl, an opioid up to 50 times more potent than heroin and 100 times more powerful than morphine, has been a major contributor to the opioid overdose crisis in America, responsible for over 87% of the more than 80,000 opioid overdose deaths recorded in 2021.

Officer Aquino and K-9 Mann have formed an inseparable bond, both personally and professionally. Together, they search private and commercial conveyances, as well as luggage, to prevent deadly substances from entering the country. 

Their heroic efforts extend beyond their professional duties. In 2022, K-9 Mann suffered a severe hind leg injury, requiring emergency surgery and a 12-week recovery process. Officer Aquino remained at Mann’s side throughout this challenging period and plans to adopt Mann upon the dog’s retirement. Their bond is a testament to the deep connection between law enforcement officers and their K-9 partners.

“The 2023 ASPCA Humane Award recipients perfectly represent the power of the human–animal bond and inspire us all to protect, celebrate and advance the beneficial value of that connection,” said Matt Bershadker, president and CEO of ASPCA. “We are honored to celebrate their outstanding contributions to improving and protecting lives in their communities and around the country.”

Officer Aquino and K-9 Mann’s recognition is not only a testament to the heroic efforts of this extraordinary duo but also a reminder of the importance of their work in the ongoing battle against opioid overdose deaths in the United States.