Retired California Highway Patrol Canine Hac Has Died

The 11-year-old canine served the state for six years and was instrumental in numerous narcotics seizures.

Updated on Sept. 27, 2026 in Drug Crime

Bold flat-color editorial illustration of a law enforcement shield badge silhouetted above abstract geometric mountains, symbolizing police service and loss. — Hac, a veteran California Highway Patrol drug-detection dog credited with seizing over 1,500 pounds of illicit substances, has died at 11. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Hac, a veteran California Highway Patrol canine, has passed away at the age of 11. The dog retired in 2023 following a distinguished career focused on detecting illicit substances across the state.

Why it matters

Hac played a significant role in law enforcement efforts to intercept illegal drugs and currency throughout his tenure. His work contributed to the removal of substantial quantities of dangerous narcotics from California communities.

During his six-year career, Hac successfully apprehended two suspects and facilitated the seizure of $948,000 in currency. The canine retired from active duty on May 16, 2023, after six years of service.

The players

California Highway Patrol

This is the state law enforcement agency responsible for patrolling highways and protecting state property in California.

Hac

He was a distinguished drug-sniffing canine who served with the California Highway Patrol for six years.

The details

Hac worked as a drug-sniffing canine, assisting California Highway Patrol officers in identifying and removing contraband. His career efforts resulted in the seizure of over 1,500 pounds of various illicit substances, including fentanyl and methamphetamine, while also securing two suspect apprehensions.

Hac began his service with the CHP in 2017.
The canine received an Officer of the Year award in 2019.
Hac retired from active duty on May 16, 2023.
Hac passed away on September 25, 2026.

Legal Context

This story follows the legacy of recognition established by the 2019 California Highway Patrol Officer of the Year award. Such honors highlight the critical, often specialized contributions of canine units in the state's broader law enforcement strategy.

The career of this canine unit highlights the ongoing intensity of narcotics interdiction efforts on state highways. Residents benefit from the removal of large quantities of controlled substances like fentanyl from local transit routes.

The takeaway

Hac remains a notable example of the effectiveness of canine units in high-stakes law enforcement operations. His career serves as a reminder of the physical and operational dedication required to disrupt regional drug trafficking networks.