Retired Georgia K-9 Surrendered to Shelter Sparks Investigation.

Retired K9 Kona Liberty County Sheriff's OfficePhoto byLiberty County Sheriff's Office, Georgia Facebook

Liberty County, Ga - Liberty County Authorities Under Scrutiny Following Retired Police Dog's Surrender

Liberty County, GA — Public outrage surged across social media platforms following the revelation that Kona, a retired K-9 officer, was dropped off at the Liberty County Animal Shelter by a deputy from the local Sheriff’s Office. The incident, occurring within six months of Kona’s retirement, has triggered an official investigation by the Sheriff’s Office.

Kona, a four-and-a-half-year-old retired police dog, was left at the shelter last Monday, sparking concern among local residents who took to online platforms to voice their discontent. Stephanie Bourgeois, a former military dog handler who had previously worked with Kona, joined the chorus of voices questioning the timing of Kona's retirement, suggesting it was premature.

In an unexpected turn, Kona was swiftly adopted by Kevin Schwartz, a Charleston, South Carolina resident who recently lost his own canine companion. Schwartz, experienced with trained K-9s, reported that Kona appeared in good spirits despite being slightly underweight upon her arrival.

The controversy intensified upon the revelation that the Deputy that was Kona’s former handler, had surreptitiously surrendered the retired K-9 to the shelter without proper authorization. Sheriff William Bowman clarified that such actions were neither endorsed nor known by the Sheriff’s Office. Consequently, the Deputy has been reassigned, and his responsibilities as a K-9 handler suspended pending further investigation.

This incident unfolds against a backdrop of ongoing scrutiny of the Sheriff’s Office’s K-9 unit. Internal investigations were initiated following allegations of document forgery related to K-9 training by unit supervisors, both of whom have since resigned. The Georgia Bureau of Investigation has now intervened, hinting at potential criminal charges.

While Kona has found solace in Schwartz's home, the circumstances surrounding her surrender have left the Liberty County Sheriff’s Office seeking answers. As the investigation progresses, concerns persist regarding the treatment and welfare of retired police canines within the county’s jurisdiction.

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