FRANKLIN COUNTY, Va. (Romero Report) — Master Deputy John Lavinder has retired from the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office after 39 years of service. 

Throughout his career, Master Deputy Lavinder served in both the corrections and courts divisions.

The sheriff’s office said in a July 8 Facebook post that Lavinder is widely recognized for his expertise with bloodhounds, gaining a national reputation as a K9 scent training instructor. 

Over 32 years as a bloodhound handler, he raised seven bloodhounds for the sheriff’s office.

Joining Lavinder in retirement is his current bloodhound partner, K9 Jethro, a nearly 10-year-old bloodhound who has specialized in trailing human scent since he was one year old. 

The post said Jethro has been instrumental in locating numerous individuals who wandered from their homes in county and neighboring areas.

“John, we thank you for your years of dedicated service and loyalty to this agency and community,” the sheriff’s office wrote. “We look forward to having you back in a part-time role while you enjoy a much-deserved retirement. K9 Jethro, we thank you for your service, your slobbers, and hope you enjoy your retirement!”

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