(File photo) Bailey, pictured with handler, Deputy Brad Hawley, was recently euthanized after a long period of service to the Clay County Sheriff's Office.

Bailey, a purebred yellow Labrador retriever, served the Clay County Sheriff's Office and citizens of Clay and surrounding counties with distinction for nine years beginning in 1996. Bailey was Clay County's first K9 and initially was certified as a narcotics detection expert before earning certification as the counties first dual purpose K9, specializing in criminal apprehension, tracking, handler protection and article searches.

During Bailey's service to Clay County, he amassed narcotics finds totaling in excess of 15 pounds of methamphetamine, 20 pounds of marijuana, 8 pounds of cocaine and he was responsible for the forfeiture of more than $100,000 in cash and property. For four consecutive years, Bailey claimed the #1 ranking in the region for narcotics detection. Throughout Bailey's career, he made numerous public appearances in schools, churches, and at civic meetings and was loved and admired by most that had the opportunity to meet him. He entertained thousands of school children over the years with his ability to locate hidden narcotics and his energy and jumping ability.

Bailey was handled his entire career by Sgt. Brad Hawley and it was Bailey's success that paved the way for Clay County's current K9 Max.

Bailey was cremated and according to his former handler, Hawley, he will forever remain a part of the Clay County Sheriff's Office.