K-9 Dax Handler Placed On Administrative Leave
“I would like to thank the public for helping the Lake County Sheriff’s Department locate one of our K-9s that managed to run away twice in three days. This is a rare and unfortunate situation. But area citizens who contacted us with tips and officers from Lake County and surrounding jurisdictions worked hard to bring Dax home safely,” said Sheriff Oscar Martinez Jr.
“After extensive analysis of these incidents, Dax’s handler has been placed on paid administrative leave pending further investigation and additional disciplinary action,” Sheriff Martinez said. “I have also ordered that immediate steps be taken in an effort to minimize the potential of similar situations.”
The K-9, named Dax, is a 14-month-old Dutch Shepherd from Canada. He had just completed a week of training with his handler and was in Lake County for just 6 hours when he ran away the first time, which was at around 9 p.m. Saturday (09/26/2020) in Crown Point. At that time, Dax broke free from his handler, still dragging his 6-foot lead behind him. Officers completed extensive searches for him. Crown Point residents were extremely helpful with contacting the department with information on possible sightings. There were reports that Dax was spotted jumping fences and swimming across a pond.
At around 7:20 Monday morning (09/29/2020) we received a report that someone had spotted Dax near Ball School. Dax was still dragging his 6-foot lead behind him. Dax was finally located laying down behind a storage shed at a residence. Dax was taken to Coyne Veterinary Hospital where it was determined he was healthy.
“I met with the commanders of our Patrol Division and K-9 Unit for comprehensive discussion and review of the events which transpired. After careful consideration, I approved the commanders’ recommendation to return Dax to his handler to continue their bonding, which they began during the previous week’s training in Canada,” said Sheriff Martinez. Dax was returned to his handler at about 3 p.m. Tuesday.
At approximately 9:30 p.m., Dax escaped from his handler’s home through a door that had not been secured properly. The officer had reportedly stepped outside of the home at the time. For a second time, officers searched extensively through the night. At about 9:50 this morning, (09/30/2020) Dax was spotted in the area of Pratt and Monitor in Crown Point. Within the next few minutes, officers were able to find and retrieve the dog near Livingstone Church.
“We are currently reviewing Dax’s status on our department and considering options including reassigning him or possibly returning him to the vendor,” the sheriff said. “I am extremely disappointed by these regrettable events.”
The Dax’s handler has been an officer with the Lake County Sheriff’s Department for almost two years and was assigned to the Patrol Division. 8 months ago, she was assigned her first K-9, named Razor. Razor was diagnosed with laryngeal paralysis and was exchanged for Dax.
