K9 Named In Honor Of Maryland Boy Who Died Of Brain Cancer

CARROLL COUNTY, Md. (WJZ)—The Carroll County Sheriff's Office welcomes their newest K9 "Jake," named after a young boy who died in 2015 from an aggressive form of brain cancer.

Jacob "Jake" Offutt, a Winter's Mill High School student, was born a healthy boy on June 1, 2000. He grew up playing, doing what most normal kids do.

But his life changed forever in 2014 when frequent migraines turned in something more serious: a tumor on his brain stem, according to the Jake Offutt Foundation website.

Tragically, young Jacob passed away on July 13, 2015, just 7 months after his diagnosis.

So the Carroll County Sheriff's Office wanted to honor Jacob.

"We know Jacob was a strong and courageous young man that was taken from this world too soon. We also know that he fought every step of the way, and had a community that fought with him. In law enforcement, a patrol K9 is one of the strongest symbols we have. They are fierce and put themselves in harm's way to protect their handler and other law enforcement officers. They also have a community behind them to help keep the peace and save lives. We simply can't think of a better tribute," said Sheriff Jim DeWees.

K9 Jake is a Malinois/Shepherd mix from Holland and acquired by the Sheriff's Office late last week.

K9 Jake, who is celebrating his first birthday this week, will work alongside newly appointed K9 Handler Master Deputy Brittany Powell starting on March 14th where they will train for 16 weeks.

The sheriff's office says a small ceremony was held Tuesday afternoon to formally introduce K9 Jake to Mr. and Mrs. Offutt

To read more about Jacob Offutt's story or to make a donation CLICK HERE.