On Monday, November 28 Sheriff Beth announced the death of Kenosha County Sheriff’s Department canine Klaus.

Klaus became suddenly ill on Sunday, November 27 and was brought to an emergency veterinarian where he was diagnosed with internal bleeding, and masses on his spleen. Klaus’ handler Deputy John Lanctot and the Department made the decision to euthanize Klaus when tests revealed more masses on his liver. 

Klaus died peacefully on November 28 at 12:50 AM with Deputy Lanctot at his side.

Klaus was born in Germany in February of 2010 and was purchased from Tops Kennel in Grayslake Illinois.  Klaus and Deputy Lanctot began training together at Tops Kennel in September of 2011 and began working as a Patrol K9 team in Kenosha County in November of 2011. Klaus faithfully served the Citizens of Kenosha County for five years.

Deputy Lanctot and Klaus were the second shift K9 patrol team for the Sheriff’s Department working primarily along the I-94 corridor. They were very active on I-94 making hundreds of drug and criminal arrests.

The team conducted many public demonstrations, school searches, and public relations events. Klaus and his handler were certified through the North American Police Work Dog Association.