The Lake Forest Police Department announced the retirement of its canine officer after the seven-year-old German Shepherd, described as “invaluable,” received a medical diagnosis.
The Lake Forest Police Department said Wednesday that Canine Chase was officially retiring after years of loyal service with the agency.
“Chase will trade in his badge for a ball, enjoying a peaceful retirement with his handler Officer Mike Hughes and his family,” the police department said.
A retirement party is being held from 10-11 a.m. on Saturday at Deerpath Community Park. The public is encouraged to attend.
Since joining the department in April 2019, Chase has been a “vital partner” in keeping Lake Forest safe, police said.
He excelled in human tracking, narcotics detection, building searches and more.
“Whether wagging his tail at a community event or keeping a sharp eye on patrol, Chase was always ready to perform,” Hughes said.
“I’m grateful to the Lake Forest community for their unwavering support of Chase and the LFPD’s K9 Program,” Hughes added.
Police officials say they will be working with the Lake Forest Police Foundation to explore opportunities to continue the canine program, “recognizing the critical role K9 officers play in law enforcement.”
“Chase has been an invaluable member of our team, serving with distinction alongside Officer Hughes,” Chief of Police John Burke said.
Burke told Lake and McHenry County Scanner that Chase, who is seven years old, is being retired following a medical diagnosis of Lumbosacral Stenosis.
In addition, Hughes, Chase’s handler, is being promoted to sergeant on Friday. “[…] we felt it was the right time for Chase to retire,” Burke said.