Published May 27. 2026 10:51AM
The Lehigh County Sheriff’s Office sadly reports the passing of retired K-9 “Nevie.”
Nevie, a German Shepherd imported from Germany, was trained in explosive detection and tracking. She joined the ranks of the LCSO June 7, 2017 as the first ever K-9 member of the office.
Due to declining health, she was retired May 2, 2025 at the age of 10 years and 6 months.
Nevie, with her K-9 handler Deputy Richard Garner, conducted daily sweeps of the courthouses, government center and incoming county mail. During her tenure, she was activated to a multitude of incidents involving various suspicious packages. Nevie and Garner also provided service to over 40 incidents assisting law enforcement agencies throughout Lehigh and Northampton counties.
She was an integral part of the LCSO Community Outreach Program, conducting demonstrations at schools and community events.
Sheriff Joe Hanna extends his deepest gratitude to Emmaus Animal Hospital, Drs. Arthur F. Obenrader, VMD and Richard Grgurich, VMD for their expert and passionate care throughout Nevie’s life.
CONTRIBUTED PHOTOSRetired K-9 “Nevie,” a German Shepherd imported from Germany, is shown in her working gear while at the Lehigh County Sheriff’s office.
K-9 handler Deputy Richard Garner, Sheriff Joe Hanna and Nevie are pictured shortly after Nevie’s arrival.
