The Lake County Sheriff’s Office bids farewell to a true hero as K9 Dax officially hangs up his badge. After years of dedicated service, this four-legged officer is trading in his duties for some well-deserved rest and relaxation. With a wag of his tail and a bark of gratitude, Dax leaves behind a legacy of bravery and loyalty that won’t soon be forgotten. Let’s take a moment to celebrate the remarkable career of this furry law enforcement legend.
K9 Dax Retires From Lake County Sheriff’s Office
The Lake County Sheriff’s Office has declared K9 Dax, a valued team member, to be retiring. K9 Dax, who joined the police in the spring of 2015 at the age of thirteen months, has left a lasting impression.
Lake County Sheriff’s K9 Dax Retireshttps://t.co/md4vGeWID3 pic.twitter.com/k4uwgDmCM6
— Lake County Sheriff (@LakeCoILSheriff) April 4, 2024
Dax has helped find over 400 missing people and capture criminals on the run with his colleague, Deputy John Forlenza. He has also taken part in other neighborhood protests and has been involved in acquiring illegal substances, weapons, and cars.
Dax has won many awards for his exceptional service, including the esteemed 2019 American Humane Hero Dog – Law Enforcement Winner. Beyond the world of awards, he has also had great success in competition, placing highly in multiple trials run by the United States Police Canine Association.
Regretfully, on March 3, 2024, K9 Dax suffered injuries during the process of capturing a wanted suspect. Dax’s vets determined that his thoracolumbar and cervical intervertebral disc disease prevented him from returning to active duty, even with extensive physical therapy (IVDD).
Dax’s official retirement request has been granted by Sheriff John D. Idleburg in appreciation of his devoted service, enabling him to take a well-earned vacation with Deputy Forlenza and his family.
Deputy Forlenza conveyed his appreciation for Dax’s steadfast commitment and the help they’ve gotten together.
Forlenza said, “There is no way to quantify or properly express what Dax’s service has meant to the Lake County Sheriff’s Office, the Lake County community, his supporters across the nation, and especially me. But I cannot refrain from stating that his service has been exemplary, and most importantly, he has saved countless lives, including my own.”
She further said, “I am proud to have been his handler and best friend for the last nine years. Dax is a true hero and well deserving of the rest and love that waits for him in his retirement. I’d like to especially thank Dax’s supporters, a team of veterinarians, trainers, the Lake County Sheriff’s Office, and my family and friends for all their support throughout his career.”
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