According to Cherokee County Sheriff Jeff Shaver, investigators and K-9 Keelo, celebrated Red Ribbon Week with grades three through six at Sand Rock Elementary School this week.

The National Red Ribbon Celebration was sponsored by the National Family Partnership in 1998; today, the Red Ribbon program serves as a catalyst to mobilize communities, educate youth and encourage participation in drug prevention activities.

Since that time the campaign has reached millions of U.S. children and families.

School officials requested Sheriff’s Office investigators bring Keelo to discuss the dangers of illegal drugs.

Investigators also informed students how Keelo is used to combat illegal drugs in Cherokee County. Keelo began working for the Sheriff’s Office about a year and a half ago, and during that short span, her efforts have led to around 100 drug cases.

Sheriff Shaver stated that he is glad the sheriff’s office was able to participate in Red Ribbon Week, and he hopes that the program will help prevent the youth of the county, from trying illegal drugs.