Beloved Lake County Courthouse Dog Hitch Dies After Years Of Service

LAKE COUNTY, IL — Hitch, the beloved Lake County Courthouse dog who spent years comforting crime victims, court participants and visitors throughout the justice system, has died, the Lake County State's Attorney's Office announced.

Hitch died Saturday, July 18, surrounded by family, friends and colleagues, according to the State's Attorney's Office.

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Hitch joined the Lake County State's Attorney's Office in 2016 after completing specialized facility dog training through Duo Dogs Inc. in St. Louis. He was 2 years old when he began his service and continued helping people throughout Lake County until his retirement on April 30, 2024.

Facility dogs play an important role in the justice system by helping reduce stress and anxiety for victims and others involved in court proceedings. Hitch became a familiar and comforting presence at the Lake County Courthouse, where officials said he left a lasting impact on everyone he encountered.

During his years of service, Hitch provided emotional support to crime victims, participants in the 19th Judicial Circuit Court's Specialty Courts — including Veterans Court, Mental Health Court and Drug Court — and many others who entered the courthouse.

Hitch worked alongside his primary handler, Victim Specialist Jenna Melloy, as well as Suzanne Willett, Beth Prager and Judge Sharmila Manak.

"Hitch was truly one-of-a-kind and getting to see the impact he made both inside and outside of the courtroom is something I will cherish forever," Melloy said. "His remarkable ability to bring comfort to even the most difficult situations was his superpower."

Melloy said Hitch was always eager to put on his vest and come to work, where he spent his days visiting with people throughout the County Building.

After retirement, Hitch enjoyed relaxing in the sun, taking vacations and spending time with his family.

"Hitch never met a person (or a treat) he did not love and knowing he felt so much love in return brings us comfort," Melloy said.

Lake County State's Attorney Eric Rinehart said Hitch played an important role in helping people through difficult moments.

"Hitch was a wonderful friend and partner to so many people in this office," Rinehart said. "He helped thousands of children and adults who were experiencing trauma."

Rinehart said Hitch will be remembered as part of the office's history of connecting people in need with support from canine companions.

"He will be greatly missed by all the people inside and outside of the office whose lives he made better," Rinehart said.

The Lake County State's Attorney's Office thanked Duo Dogs Inc. for training Hitch and making his years of service possible.

Officials said Hitch spent his final days surrounded by love, receiving plenty of attention and, fittingly, plenty of treats.

His legacy will continue through the countless people he comforted during his years serving Lake County.