Students at Buchanan’s Elementary School recently got a chance to say a personal thank you to Berrien County Sheriff’s officers—including the department’s K-9 ‘Zeke’. This after there had been a lockdown in the school neighborhood while officers pursued a suspect and eventually caught him.
Sheriff Chuck Heit’s office filled in the details in a statement:
A few weeks ago, in a dramatic turn of events, Buchanan schools were placed on lockdown when a suspect fled the scene of an arrest near a Buchanan school. The quick response of law enforcement, including Sgt. Crosby and his trusty K-9, Zeke, ensured the safety of Buchanan students and staff.
Sgt. Crosby and K-9 partner Zeke tracked the suspect through a wooded area, eventually capturing him and bringing the situation under control. The brave efforts of K-9 Zeke did not go unnoticed. In a heartwarming gesture, Mrs. Sater’s third-grade class decided to thank the heroic K-9 by giving him a bag of treats and expressing their gratitude for keeping them safe.
To everyone’s delight, Sgt. Crosby and Zeke visited the school to personally say thank you. Sgt. Crosby explained Zeke’s role in law enforcement and answered questions from curious students, making the visit both educational and memorable.
“The event highlights the importance of the Berrien County Sheriff’s Office’s K-9 unit in maintaining community safety and reinforces the strong bond between local law enforcement and the schools we protect,” said Sheriff Heit. “The students and staff were reassured by the presence of these everyday heroes, and K-9 Zeke enjoyed his well-deserved treats and the affection from the school community.”
