The Helen Police Department is mourning the heartbreaking loss of one of its own—K-9 Officer Henk. Henk passed away Monday morning after suffering heatstroke during a training session with his handler, Sergeant Ray Rutledge, on Saturday afternoon.
“We are devastated,” said Police Chief Aletha Barrett. “Henk was more than a K-9 officer—he was family. His service, loyalty, and heart will never be forgotten.”
K-9 Henk began his official duty with the Helen Police Department on April 18, 2024, quickly becoming a vital team member and a trusted community protector.
On Monday, local law enforcement escorted Henk’s body to Barrett Funeral Home in Cleveland from Gainesville.
“Our hearts are full from the outpouring of support,” said a spokesperson for the Helen Police Department. “The bond of law enforcement is strong—both two- and four-legged. K9 Henk was not only a trusted partner in the field but a cherished member of our law enforcement family.”
To honor his service, the Helen Police Department invites the public and fellow law enforcement officers to a memorial ceremony on Thursday, June 26, at Helen First Baptist Church. Doors open at 1:15 p.m., with the service beginning at 1:30 p.m. Following the ceremony, a procession will accompany K-9 Henk to the Helen Police Department, where he will be laid to rest with full honors.
Helen First Baptist Church is located at 53 Edelweiss Strasse in Helen.
