K9 Kelly, a veteran member of the Ontario County Sheriff’s Office K-9 Unit, retired after serving the community for eight years. Despite his age, Kelly remained dedicated to the job until the very end, helping to keep the community safe.
His skills were put to the test just over a year ago when he was called to assist in a high-profile case. On the early morning of February 19, 2021, Kelly and his handler, Sgt. Stephen Swarthout, were dispatched to a gas station on Lakeshore Drive in Canandaigua, where a suspect had committed a robbery. Within just three minutes of their arrival, Kelly sprang into action and played a crucial role in resolving the situation.
The bravery and skill demonstrated by K9 Kelly in his last case is a testament to his commitment to serving and protecting the community. Although he may have retired, the memory of his service will always be remembered and celebrated.
Just 10 minutes later, Kelly was able to locate the suspect hiding in the woods behind Wegmans. The suspect was taken into custody without causing any harm or incident, according to what Cirencione stated at Kelly’s retirement celebration on Tuesday.
Kelly, who served as a K-9 Unit veteran in the Ontario County Sheriff’s Office, is now retiring. Despite his advanced age, Kelly still possessed the energy of a young German Shepherd as he playfully approached guests with a toy in his mouth. Nevertheless, the day was a mix of emotions for Swarthout who jokingly claimed to have spent more time with Kelly than his own family.
Swarthout expressed his sadness, stating that Kelly was an exceptional dog who still loved to work. He said, “I’ll miss having him around all the time, but I’m sure he’ll have a great time in his retirement, spending time with our other pet dog and the family.”
Throughout his eight years of service, K9 Kelly of the Ontario County Sheriff’s Office has proven himself to be a valuable asset to the department. He began working with his handler, Sgt. Stephen Swarthout, in March 2015 and the two have been a dynamic duo ever since. Kelly’s skills and dedication to the job have allowed him to locate dozens of missing persons, clear hundreds of buildings, and discover countless packages of illicit drugs.
Sheriff David Cirencione emphasized Kelly’s commitment to keeping his partner safe, making sure Swarthout is protected at all times. Undersheriff Michael Rago, who worked with Kelly and Swarthout during their midnight shifts, remembered Kelly’s ability to understand their conversations during their 3 a.m. talks. “It was as if he knew what world issues we were solving,” Rago said. “Being part of this team has been an absolute pleasure.”
Kelly, the Sheriff’s Office Ambassador
Kelly was known for his courage and dedication, but also for his social abilities, according to Cirencione. He was known for his warm greetings and friendly presence for those who came to the Sheriff’s Office. The staff at the Sheriff’s Office loved having him around, as he would roam from office to office, spreading joy and comfort.
“Kelly has been almost like a therapy dog,” Cirencione said. “He’s amazing.”
Swarthout said Kelly was particularly skilled at visiting schools, where he would perform demonstrations and serve as the face of the department. He was an approachable and social dog, a contrast to many other canines in his line of work.
In addition to Kelly’s recognition, Swarthout was also honored as a role model officer and supervisor.
“With you and Kelly serving and protecting Ontario County, it has truly been a safer place,” Cirencione said.
Celebrating Kelly’s Retirement
As Kelly officially retired from the Ontario County Sheriff’s Office’s K-9 Unit, he was honored with a special celebration. Kelly was surrounded by friends and fellow officers, including K9 officers from surrounding areas and fellow deputies, who gathered to share cake and stories.
Although there was no cake for Kelly himself, he was given a well-deserved reward for his years of hard work and dedication – a big, thick bone. The Sheriff’s Office now has three German shepherds and a bloodhound, but Kelly will always be remembered for his tireless work and friendly demeanor.
It won’t be long before a new K9 officer is paired with a new canine partner, but Kelly’s legacy will continue to inspire future generations of K9 officers.