K-9 Officer Credited With Finding Lost Girl Dies at Age 10

ST. CHARLES, IL -- The St. Charles Police Department is mourning the sudden loss of its K-9, Aries, who died Sunday at the age of 10. Aries had served with St. Charles Department police officer Nic Anson since 2008. The 10-year-old pup is credited with finding a young girl who ran away from her house with no shoes or coat a couple years ago in Geneva and assisting with narcotics investigations.

On Sunday morning, Aries was rushed to the veterinarian where x-rays showed he had a large amount of fluid around his abdomen. After consulting with the vet, the difficult decision was made to put Aries down, according to St. Charles police.

“This is a difficult time for the department, but especially for Officer Anson,” said Police Chief Jim Keegan. “Nic and Aries worked so well together and Aires truly was a part of Nic’s family.”

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Aries was an important part of the St. Charles Police Department, assisting with duties such as narcotics detection, tracking, building searches, and apprehensions. Aries also assisted the Kane County SWAT team with operations and was certified by the Illinois State Police. Aries and Officer Anson trained together twice a month, and Aries passed his most recent certification with flying colors, according to a news release from the St. Charles Police Department.

Aries had several successful tracks in his career. One notable event was in Geneva a few years ago, when he located a young girl who ran away from her house with no shoes or coat. Aries also was commended for completing a successful narcotics search for another law enforcement agency, according to a news release.

Last year, Aries’ service to the department was recognized with a special proclamation at a city council meeting. There, Mayor Rogina presented Aries with an edible key to the city.

Mayor Ray Rogina ordered the city of St. Charles flag lowered to half-staff in honor of Aries.