by Officer Henk, a K-9 member of the Helen Police Department, passed away tragically. Henk suffered heatstroke after a Saturday afternoon training session with Sergeant Ray Rutledge, his handler, and died Monday morning.
Aletha Barrett, the police chief, said, “We are devastated.” Henk was family, not just a K-9 police. His devotion, service, and heart will always be remembered.
K-9 On April 18, 2024, Henk started his official duties with the Helen Police Department. He soon established himself as a valuable team player and a respected neighborhood guardian.
Henk’s body was transported from Gainesville to Cleveland’s Barrett Funeral Home on Monday by local law police.
The outpouring of support has filled our hearts, a Helen Police Department official said. Law enforcement has a close relationship with both two-legged and four-legged members. In addition to being a valued member of our law enforcement family, K9 Henk was a trusted partner in the field.
On Thursday, June 26, the Helen Police Department will hold a memorial service at Helen First Baptist Church, inviting the public and other law enforcement personnel to attend. The service starts at 1:30 p.m., and doors open at 1:15 p.m. K-9 Henk will be taken in a parade to the Helen Police Department after the event, where he will be buried with full respects.
The address of Helen First Baptist Church is 53 Edelweiss Strasse.
