Sheriff Timothy Cameron regrets to announce the passing of K-9 Kendo. K-9 Kendo was a 5-year-old Belgian Malinois purchased through Tarheel Canine of North Carolina. Kendo began his service with the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office in 2009. Upon arrival, Kendo successfully completed a sixteen week basic K-9 training course before becoming certified in the Patrol and Explosive Detection fields.
Throughout his years of service, K-9 Kendo participated in numerous tracks consisting of explosive detection, search and rescue, and wanted apprehensions, including the track of a wanted subject who had fled on foot from a Maryland State Police Trooper.
“When the term police canine is mentioned, many people think of the invaluable crime fighting and public relations service a canine provides to the law enforcement organization and the citizens they serve, but forget the humanistic significance of the police canine. K-9 Kendo was a valued member of the St. Mary’s CountySheriff’s Office family. He was also the protector, partner, friend and family member of Corporal Todd Fleenor. Kendo’s passing is a significant loss to us personally and professionally. His enthusiasm and sense of duty to the people of St. Mary’s County will be missed. Please keep Corporal Fleenor and K-9 Kendo in your thoughts during this difficult time. Kendo, we salute you and thank you for your dedicated service. May you rest in peace.” (Sheriff Timothy K. Cameron)
