OBSERVER Photo by Gregory Bacon Deputy Jason Beichner, center, was named the 2025 Chautauqua County and New York State American Legion Law Enforcement Officer of the Year. Beicher, a K-9 handler, received a Commendation at the recent county legislature meeting following his retirement.

Chautauqua County officials recently recognized the career of Sheriff’s K-9 Deputy Jason Beichner, who is retiring after 20 years of service.

Beichner joined the Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Office in October 2005. Over the course of his career, he served in numerous specialized roles — including field training officer, academy instructor, SWAT team leader, senior fire investigator, firearms instructor, and senior diver on the Water Emergency Team.

In 2011, Beichner achieved a longtime dream of becoming a K-9 handler, forming close bonds with his partners Drago, Drake, and Jax. Together, they assisted in locating missing persons, apprehending suspects, recovering firearms, and building strong community connections through countless demonstrations and outreach events. Beichner also trained K-9 units throughout Western New York.

In 2016, he applied a tourniquet that saved the life of a motorcyclist and was awarded the New York State Senate Liberty Medal. In 2019, he rescued a suicidal individual from a swamp.

In recognition of his distinguished service, Beichner was named the 2025 Chautauqua County and New York State American Legion Law Enforcement Officer of the Year.

Beichner is a husband and father who has given countless hours to coaching youth wrestling and football.

A graduate of Cassadaga Valley High School and Jamestown Community College, Beichner’s journey began with the Westfield Police Department before he joined the Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Office. Throughout, he carried forward the values instilled by his parents, John and the late Eileen Beichner.

“The reason I was successful is not just me — it’s entirely due to my family, the upbringing I had, and the commitments I’ve made throughout my life,” said Beichner . “Although I’m the one being honored, this belongs to them as much as it does to me.”

At the September meeting of the Chautauqua County Legislature, County Executive Paul M. Wendel Jr. and Legislator John R. Penhollow presented Beichner with a formal letter of commendation, praising his “two decades of exceptional service and dedication to the safety and well-being of Chautauqua County.”

“Deputy Beichner represents the very best of law enforcement — professionalism, compassion, and integrity,” Wendel said. “Whether saving a life in the line of duty, training the next generation of officers, or greeting fans at a Bills game with his K-9 partners, Jason has always led with dedication and heart. We thank him for his service and wish him nothing but the best in retirement.”