A law enforcement canine worked his final shift Tuesday morning, ending an eight year career with the Columbus Police Department (CPD).

CPD Spokesman Lt. Matt Harris says that after arriving from Czechoslovakia, K-9 Rex began working with his handler, Officer Chad

Lehman, during the summer of 2008. Over the course of his career, authorities say that Rex made nearly 250 apprehensions, searched over 100 building for suspects, and conducted 200 tracks for suspects. Last year, Harris said that Rex assisted local law enforcement with the recovery of more than seven pounds of methamphetamine.

Harris said that before the start of Rex’s final shift, he was treated to a large steak, courtesy of Texas Roadhouse in Columbus. During a reception with fellow officers Monday night, Rex was recognized for his service. Harris says that Rex will continue to live with Officer Lehman and his family during his retirement.

CPD officials are in the process of selecting a new canine which will begin serving the community later this year.