COLUMBUS, OH – November 6, 2019 After nine years of faithful service to the residents of Franklin County, the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office will celebrate the retirement of Canine Jack at a ceremony on Thursday, November 7th.
Jack, an 11-year old German Shepherd, joined the K9 Unit in 2010. Specializing in tracking suspects, narcotics detection, and patrol service, Jack spent his entire career with one partner,
Deputy Mike Severance.
While saying farewell to one, the Sheriff’s Office will also welcome a new recruit at the same time. Canine Hazen Jay, a 3-year old German Shepherd, will be welcomed by Sheriff Baldwin and partnered with Deputy Severance. Hazen Jay will be Deputy Severance’s seventh canine partner.
Also of note, Deputy Severance has been with the Sheriff’s Office since 1973. A canine handler since 1985, he is currently the longest-serving canine handler in Ohio, and the oldest full-time handler in the nation.