OPD K9 Jack Honored Posthumously for His Service

The Oxford Board of Aldermen recently recognized the hard work and dedication of Oxford Police Department K9 Jack, who died in December.

On Tuesday, Mayor Robyn Tannehill read a proclamation to posthumously honor Jack and his service to law enforcement during the regular Board of Aldermen meeting.

It ended with a standing ovation.

Jack began his service in 2012 when he completed his obedience training and became certified in tracking narcotics and in bite work. He assisted in the apprehension of fugitives in many felony cases with OPD, Lafayette County Metro Narcotics Unit, Lafayette County Sheriff’s Department and other surrounding law enforcement agencies.

His lifesaving skills were used in several cases to help track and locate missing children and Alzheimer’s patients.

Throughout his career, Jack located approximately 600 pounds of marijuana along with approximately 200 pounds of methamphetamine. Jack routinely checked packages at the U.S. Post Office and indicated many that contained illegal narcotics and U.S. currency that were to be delivered within the community.

He attended numerous training seminars and K-9 demonstrations with private businesses and civic groups, ensuring citizens were prepared and educated.

“He made a mark on the Oxford Police Department and the entire Oxford community,” the proclamation stated.

When Jack retired from OPD, he went to live with his handler, Officer Colby Terrell.

Jack died on Dec. 19, 2020.

“It is with sadness that we announce the passing of retired OPD K9 Jack,” the Police Department posted on social media at that time. “He worked many years for us and was currently living with his last handler. He crossed the rainbow bridge during the night in his sleep.”

The Board of Aldermen presented Terrell with a framed copy of the proclamation Tuesday.