A four-legged friend is retiring from the Benton County Sheriff’s Office after more than 9 years of service.

Sheriff Troy Heck says Ben, one of the dogs used for K-9 work, retired today Wednesday after a recent ACL injury. His injury made it difficult to meet the physical demands of tracking and detecting situations.

The sheriff’s office noticed this challenge and decided the best choice for Ben was a well-earned retirement.

During his career in Benton County, Ben located a missing child in a corn field, sniffed out many items of evidence and drugs, and captured dangerous criminals. Heck adds his keen senses and abilities will be missed in the patrol division.

The department plans to replace Ben’s position with a new K-9. Dogs used for police work are selected from a small group of breeders, and can cost as much as $10,000.

The Benton County K-9 program is funded by public donations and fundraisers, including the annual K-9 Golf Tournament. This year the outing will take place August 28 at the Wapicada Golf Club with registration at 12:30 p.m.