Related Articles
Handler – Sgt. Jonathan Presson
Union County Sheriff’s Office Mourns the Loss of Veteran K-9 Atos
Union County is bidding a tearful farewell to one of its most respected and dedicated public servants. K-9 Atos, a highly trained police dog, who served the Union County Sheriff’s Office for nearly 12 years, has passed away. Not just an officer, but a member of the community, Atos’s death marks a significant loss and leaves a void in the department. Atos was paired with Sgt. Jonathan Presson for the entirety of his service. Together, they formed a formidable team, demonstrating expertise in a wide range of law enforcement disciplines. From tracking to article searches, narcotics detection to building searches, handler protection, and suspect apprehension, Atos was a paragon of canine excellence. Primarily assigned to the Patrol Division, Atos also made significant contributions to the Narcotics Bureau. His keen sense for detecting dangerous drugs played a crucial role in the capture and prosecution of numerous narcotics traffickers. Atos was more than just a dog; he was an essential cog in the machine of law enforcement, ensuring the safety and security of Union County. Unfortunately, Atos’s illustrious service came to an end after he was diagnosed with cancer about a month ago. Despite the best efforts of medical professionals, Atos succumbed to the disease, passing away surrounded by his family. His death, a blow to the Sheriff’s Office, is mourned by the entire community. In the wake of Atos’s passing, Union County Sheriff’s Office and the community he served are left with the memories of a silent guardian, a canine hero whose loyalty and service will forever be etched in their hearts.
