Meet Lake County's Newest Police Dog

LAKE COUNTY, IL — The newest Lake County police dog has joined the Lake County Sheriff's Office, authorities announced this past week.

K9 Lux, a direct offspring of the late K9 Dax, has joined the Lake County Sheriff’s Office as its newest police canine. K9 Dax, a highly decorated member of the sheriff’s canine unit, was injured in March 2024 while apprehending a fleeing felon, according to the news release from the sheriff's office.

The severity of his injuries led to his early retirement. Dax died on April 12, 2024.

Before his passing, K9 Dax fathered a litter of puppies.

Deputy John Forlenza—Dax’s longtime partner—recognized that one of the puppies stood out with the potential to follow in his father’s footsteps. That puppy, K9 Lux, was selected as the top candidate for future law enforcement training, according to a news release.

"We are proud to introduce K9 Lux as the newest member of our K9 Unit," said Sheriff John D. Idleburg. "Lux carries on an incredible legacy, as a direct offspring of our beloved K9 Dax."

Forlenza was one of two deputies selected this winter to be a handler of one of the sheriff’s office next two canines. Upon receiving this opportunity, he donated K9 Lux to Tops K9, the training facility responsible for preparing the sheriff’s canine unit.

Lux and Forlenza will begin training together this spring.

“I would like to express my profound sense of gratitude and happiness that the Lake County Sheriff’s Office has officially named K9 Dax’s son, K9 Lux, as my new partner. Dax was remarkable and always did his duty with great courage and dedication throughout his career," Forlenza said. "I am honored and grateful for the opportunity to continue as a member of the Lake County Sheriff’s Office K9 Team, and to serve the citizens of Lake County with K9 Lux.”