WALDORF, Md. – On Friday, July 16, the Charles County Sheriff’s Office said farewell to an amazing police officer and member of our family, Sergeant Haven Smith, #302, as he begins his retirement after more than 24 years in law enforcement. His K-9 partner, Hondo, is also retiring, after 6 years of service.
Sgt. Smith began his career with CCSO in 1997, after honorably serving in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1986-1997 during the Desert Storm and Desert Shield operations.
During his career with the Sheriff’s Office, he served in Corrections, Patrol, Narcotics, and K-9. While he excelled in many areas, Sgt. Smith says he had the most fun while working in the Narcotics Enforcement Section. He shined in that unit for 12 years and was recognized by many supervisors for his dependability and knowledge. He had a great ability to lead in that unit and trained all new detectives to the unit. Sgt. Smith is known for being fast thinking, decisive, confident, a problem-solver, natural leader, and effective trainer.
Sgt. Smith’s time in the K-9 Unit, he says, was the most challenging but the most rewarding. He served as a K-9 handler, trainer, and supervisor, and finished his career working with his partner, K-9 Hondo.
Hondo is a 7 year-old German shepherd who served alongside his faithful handler, Sgt. Smith, for 6 years. Hondo worked in patrol and specialized in narcotics detection. He also assisted with tracking missing persons, locating suspects in crimes, locating evidence and searching buildings and houses. He enjoyed performing at many public events, delighting audiences across the county! K-9 Hondo is credited with locating numerous narcotics and assisting in multiple arrests.
In his retirement, Sgt. Smith plans to spend his time on his farm raising his kids and horses.
Haven and Hondo, we are truly going to miss you! Thank you for an outstanding career filled with service, dedication, loyalty, and excellence. We wish you the best, and remember that you’ll always be part of our family.