K-9 Faith, Tennessee’s First Accelerant Detection Dog, Retires After Eight Years of Service
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WVLT) – The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) has announced the retirement of an extraordinary law enforcement K-9 who made history in the state. K-9 Faith, the first accelerant detection dog in Tennessee, has officially retired after years of dedicated service. She will now live with her handler in East Tennessee, marking the beginning of a new chapter in her life.
Faith was an essential part of the TBI team for over eight years, having joined the agency in December 2017. Throughout her service, she played a vital role in investigating fires by sniffing out accelerants – substances used to start fires intentionally. As the first of her kind, Faith became a trailblazer, setting the standard for accelerant detection canines across the state.
A Trailblazing K-9 in Tennessee
Faith’s journey began at the University of Auburn, where she was born, before she received her training at a women’s prison in Florida. She quickly became a skilled and reliable partner for the TBI in investigating fire scenes. Over the years, Faith worked tirelessly to identify evidence and helped solve numerous cases related to arson and homicide.
TBI officials highlighted Faith’s invaluable contribution to fire investigations, stating, “For two years, when she first began with TBI, she was the only accelerant detection canine in the state and worked all across the regions, from Memphis to Mountain City.” In total, Faith responded to over 300 requests for her services, making appearances at fire scenes throughout Tennessee.
Faith’s Impact on Investigations and Prosecutions
Assistant Special Agent in Charge Mark Delaney, Faith’s handler, shared his admiration for her exceptional work. “I am extremely proud of the accomplishments that Accelerant Detection Canine Faith has allowed me the opportunity to be a part of since December 2017,” Delaney said. “Canine Faith has worked all types of fire investigations and has been a part of successful prosecutions for arsons and homicides in state and federal court.”
Faith’s remarkable abilities led to her involvement in crucial investigations, contributing to successful convictions in both state and federal courts. Her dedication to her job, her tireless work ethic, and her ability to perform without hesitation made her a true asset to the TBI. Delaney added, “Her dedication, desire, and ability to do her job daily without hesitation is an example that all human beings should strive to follow.”
The Retirement of a Hero
As per standard protocol for Accelerant Detection Canines (ADCs), dogs are required to retire between the ages of 8 and 10. Faith, having reached her ninth birthday, officially retired after eight years of service. Despite her retirement, her legacy as a trailblazer in the world of law enforcement K-9s will never be forgotten.
Her retirement ceremony marks the end of an era for the TBI. During her career, Faith was affectionately referred to as the “QUEEN” by her handlers. Known for her seniority within the TBI K-9 team, Faith made sure the other dogs knew she was in charge. Her contributions to the team will be remembered for years to come.
A New Chapter: Life as a Pet
After her retirement, K-9 Faith will live with Delaney, his wife, and their dog brother, Scruff, in East Tennessee. The former working dog will now enjoy a life of comfort and relaxation as a full-time pet, surrounded by love and care. Faith’s transition from a dedicated working dog to a beloved family member marks the perfect ending to her distinguished career.
While K-9 Faith will no longer be sniffing out evidence at fire scenes, her impact on Tennessee’s law enforcement community will endure. Her work helped ensure justice for countless victims of arson and related crimes, and her legacy will continue to inspire both humans and dogs alike.
A Farewell to a Hero
Faith’s retirement is a bittersweet moment for the TBI and all those who have worked alongside her. As Tennessee’s first accelerant detection dog, Faith paved the way for future generations of K-9s in the state. Her service not only led to successful investigations but also highlighted the essential role that K-9s play in modern law enforcement.
As she enjoys her well-deserved retirement, Faith will always be remembered as a true hero in Tennessee’s fight against crime.
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