Sheriff Mike Evans regrets to announce the passing of K-9 Duke. K-9 Duke was an 11-year-old bloodhound that began his career with the Sheriff’s Office in 2004. K-9 Duke was donated by Wendy Zurenko of Port Republic. Ms. Zurenko donated the rambunctious bloodhound because he was too much to handle. K-9 Duke went on to complete his initial police service dog training for tracking and began a long career as the first Calvert County Sheriff’s Office bloodhound working dog.
K-9 Duke was primarily used for tracking and locating missing persons and children. The only thing K-9 Duke liked more than lots of attention from kids was finding them when they were lost. He provided support to Project Lifesaver, a program that allows deputies to track lost Alzheimer’s disease and dementia patients. K-9 Duke was also used to track criminals when needed. K-9 Duke was a true ambassador for the Sheriff’s Office and was routinely seen at community functions and K-9 demonstrations.
K-9 Duke had one handler, Deputy First Class Joe Windsor. No organization or person feels the loss of a working dog more than the handler and his family. It is a bond only a few ever know. Please keep Dfc. Windsor, his family and K-9 Duke in your thoughts during this difficult time. As funds become available, Duke’s name will be placed on the “Fallen Working Dogs” memorial plaque at the Island Creek Canine Training Center.
“Duke’s service to the citizens of Calvert County will not be forgotten. Duke and Dfc. Windsor’s commitment to the safety and well-being of the public serve as an example for all to follow.”-Sheriff Mike Evans.
