Famed Lake County Sheriff’s Canine Dax, who died following a career-ending injury, was honored over the weekend in Washington D.C. where his name was etched into a canine memorial.
The Lake County Sheriff’s Office said Monday that Canine Dax was honored in Washington D.C. as a fallen canine hero during the National Law Enforcement Memorial events.
Dax “courageously served” with the Lake County Sheriff’s Office alongside his handler, Deputy John Forlenza, for almost a decade.
Dax was responsible for hundreds of successful tracks, apprehensions and evidence recoveries — all while protecting his partner and community with “unwavering loyalty,” the sheriff’s office said.
Lake County Sheriff John D. Idleburg was in attendance to pay tribute, along with Deputy Forlenza and Canine Lux.
Lux is Dax’s son, who now continues his legacy in service, the sheriff’s office said.
Dax’s name was etched into the National Law Enforcement Canine Memorial, a “lasting tribute to his bravery and dedication,” sheriff’s officials said.
“Though he may be gone, Dax’s legacy will continue to inspire and protect. National Police Dog Foundation, thank you!”
Dax was injured on March 3, 2024, while apprehending a person who had committed several felonies and was fleeing near Zion.
Dax injured his neck and spine, which resulted in temporary paralysis in his hindquarters.
He was later diagnosed with cervical and thoracolumbar Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) and lumbosacral IVDD exacerbated during the apprehension.
The severity of his injuries led to his early retirement and he died on April 12, 2024.
Dax fathered a litter of puppies before he died, according to Lake County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Chief Christopher Covelli.
Deputy John Forlenza, Dax’s longtime partner, recognized that one stood out with the potential to follow in his father’s footsteps.
Lux was selected as the top candidate for future law enforcement training, Covelli said.
Lux was one of three new canines announced last month to join the Lake County Sheriff’s Office.