Canine Officer Zon is retiring. Pictured with Chief David Baucom and his handler, Cpl. Sam Dellinger

May 7. Cornelius Canine Officer Zon officially retired at last night’s Town Board meeting. Due to health conditions that would put him at high risk in his working police dog role, the German Shepherd was turned over to his handler, Corporal Sam Dellinger.

Zon served since May of 2021.

Here is the resolution recognizing Zon:

Whereas, the Town of Cornelius has a Canine Officer that is a male German Shepard police
dog named Zon; and

Officer Zon | Photo: Cornelius Police Dept.

Whereas, Canine Officer Zon has served the Town of Cornelius since May 2021; and

Whereas, due to health conditions that would put Zon at high risk in his working police dog role, the Cornelius Police Dept. requests the official retirement of Zon who is deserving of the honor and recognition of his service through retirement in a place of comfort and safety conducive to his continued well-being and good health effective May 6, 2024.

Now therefore be it resolved, the Board of Commissioners of the Town of
Cornelius officially retires Canine Officer Zon from his full-time duties with the Cornelius Police Dept. and transfers all rights of ownership and responsibility for his continued care and well-being to Corporal Sam Dellinger for the price of one dollar ($1) and subject to the terms of the Ownership Transfer Agreement attached hereto as Exhibit A.

Be it further resolved, that the Board of Commissioners of the Town of Cornelius also elects to retire Canine Officer Zon’s badge and award it to his handler, Corporal Sam Dellinger,
as a remembrance for Zon’s dedicated service to the Town.

Background

Dellinger began his career with the Cornelius Police Dept. in 2019 and has worked in Patrol and Traffic Safety. Zon, who was trained in Patrol and Narcotics, replaced Canine Officer Britt who retired in 2021 after nine years of service.

Canine Officer Zon retiring | Cornelius Today photo