Handler – Deputy Jerad McFalls
Beloved Sheriff’s Office K-9 dies from cancer
On June 23, the Henderson County Sheriff’s Office made a post on its Facebook page, saying goodbye to one of its beloved K-9s who served both in Henderson County and Polk County for eight years. “Heartbroken to announce the passing of a true hero, K-9 Rento,” the Henderson County Sheriff’s Office Facebook post said. “Today, we bid farewell to a courageous law enforcement K-9 who valiantly served both the Polk County Sheriff’s Office and the Henderson County Sheriff’s Office. It is with heavy hearts that we share the news that K-9 Rento lost his battle against an aggressive form of cancer.”Rento, whose handler at the Henderson County Sheriff’s Office was Deputy Jerad McFalls, was a Dutch shepherd who served both Henderson and Polk counties from 2015-22. “Rento fearlessly patrolled our streets, worked countless cases and protected our communities. He was an integral part of our law enforcement family, a loyal companion, and an exceptional partner to his handler. Rento’s dedication and unwavering commitment to his duties earned him respect and admiration from all who had the privilege of working alongside him,” the Sheriff’s Office’s post said. “Throughout his career, K-9 Rento exemplified the true spirit of a hero. His exceptional sense of smell, agility, and intelligence were instrumental in locating suspects, detecting illicit substances and ensuring public safety. Rento’s remarkable work made a significant impact, and his legacy will continue to inspire future K-9 units.” The Sheriff’s Office said that Rento touched the lives of many, both inside and outside law enforcement.”He brought joy and comfort to the community, participated in public demonstrations and left an indelible mark on the hearts of those who had the pleasure of meeting him. His wagging tail and friendly nature will forever be remembered,” the post said. “Today, as we mourn the loss of our beloved K-9 partner, let us honor K-9 Rento’s memory by acknowledging his dedicated service and unwavering bravery. We extend our deepest sympathies to Rento’s handler and the entire law enforcement community who had the privilege of working alongside him. May we find solace in knowing that K-9 Rento’s spirit will live on, reminding us of the importance of selflessness and the bond between humans and their four-legged partners.” The Facebook post ended with “Rest in peace, dear Rento. Thank you for your service, loyalty, and the countless lives you touched. You will never be forgotten.”