ATLANTA - Fulton County Sheriff's officials say the department is mourning the loss of K-9 Deputy Marco Henry.

Marco, a 6-year-old Belgian Malinois, was euthanized Wednesday after a veterinarian discovered that he developed an inoperable cancer. Officials say they were unaware that Marco was sick until Wednesday morning.

Sheriff's officials say Marco and commander of the county's K-9 unit, Sgt. Corey Henry, had been partners for more than five years. Marco was trained to detect the presence of drugs, search for suspects and track their scents. Sheriff's officials say Henry and Marco spent more than three months in training together beginning patrol duties together.