Release the hounds!
The Lake County Sheriff’s Office released a 2025 roundup of stats related to the department’s K-9 teams and it’s an impressive record.
The office’s police dogs were deployed 485 times to support patrol operations and searches, contributing to more than 90 arrests. They also successfully found 35 people who were either trying to avoid arrest or were missing and possibly endangered.
The sharp noses of the K-9s helped police locate and seize numerous illicit drugs, as well as 27 firearms, including a machine gun and illegal ammunition.
The police dogs and their handlers also put on 59 public displays and demonstrations for groups throughout Lake County, and the dogs did eight sweeps at schools to help ensure safety and interdict drug use.
The K-9 teams completed more than 2,500 hours of advanced training focused on tracking, searches and agility.
“Our canine teams continue to be an essential asset to public safety in Lake County,” Sheriff John Idleburg said. “Not only do our unincorporated residents and contract communities rely on them, but they are also routinely called upon to support local municipalities throughout the county.
“Our canine teams continue saving countless lives each year and assist in apprehending violent felons,” he said. “I am very proud of our canine handlers and our canines.”
The K-9 teams include: Deputy John Forlenza with K-9 Lux, Deputy Andrew Martini with K-9 Danno, Deputy Kevin Gauer with K-9 Axel, Deputy Kevin Harris with K-9 Zeus, Deputy Roxanna Stancioiu with K-9 Drako, Deputy Kevin Lowe with K-9 Loki, Deputy Kevin Zerbe with K-9 Hemi, Deputy Christopher Sinceno with K-9 Simba, Deputy Patricia List with K-9 Zack (explosive/firearm detection), and Detective Alexis Sciarrone with K-9 Enzo (electronics detection).
Open house
Mundelein police will host an open house, giving residents the chance to learn about police operations and meet officers in a casual setting.
The event takes place on March 7, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Participants can meet the K-9 unit, and will also get to see live demonstrations and sit in a police cruiser.
“This is a great opportunity to meet your local officers, learn more about what we do and see how we work to keep the community safe,” the department said.
Super campaign
The Sheriff’s Office announced the results of its most recent traffic enforcement campaign, which was timed to coincide with Super Bowl weekend.
From Feb. 7-10, deputies arrested three people for driving without a valid license.
They also cited 19 drivers for speeding, and handed out about a dozen other tickets for things like seat belt violations or using cell phones while driving.
