Tolland County Mourning Loss Of Revered Police Dog Eli

TOLLAND, CT — Tolland County law enforcement officials and civilians this week are mourning the passing of a beloved and respected police dog.

Connecticut State Police Thursday announced that retired canine officer Eli died on Feb. 19 due to complications from a terminal illness.

Eli, a bloodhound, was assigned to Det. Timothy Benjamin of the Eastern District Major Crime Unit and was most recently assigned to Troop C.

Benjamin and K9 Eli were graduates of the Connecticut State Police 204th Tracking K9 Class and, as a team, they located numerous missing and "wanted" people, state police officials said.

One veteran trooper who shared many a tracking detail with the team said this week that Eli "was a good dog."

Said CSP officials, "Canine Eli was more than just a loyal partner, he was a beloved member of the community, leaving a lasting impact through his dedication, service, and unwavering companionship."