09/28/2026
Today, the view outside my office looked a little different.
The veterinary crematory next door had the honor of receiving K9 Deputy Dundee of the Lee County Sheriff’s Office, who tragically passed away following a suspect apprehension earlier today.
Seeing the Sheriff’s Office vehicles arrive, the American flag raised, and everyone gathering to honor him was one of those moments that makes you stop what you’re doing and take it all in.
These K9s aren’t simply dogs riding around in the back of a patrol vehicle. They train, work, protect their handlers, and are sent directly into situations most of us would never want to face. They become partners, family, and an important part of the communities they serve.
Whatever uniform they wear, losing a working K9 is losing a member of the team.
My heart goes out to Dundee’s handler, the Lee County Sheriff’s Office, everyone who worked alongside him, and everyone who loved and cared for him. I can only imagine how difficult it is to say goodbye to a partner you trained with, worked beside, and trusted every day.
It was incredibly moving to witness even a small part of the respect being shown to him today.
Rest easy, K9 Deputy Dundee. 🐾💙
Thank you for your service to Lee County.
End of Watch — September 28, 2026.
