The Marion County Sheriff’s Office regrets to announce the passing of MCSO Comfort Caj, who died yesterday following a sudden illness.
Caj joined the MCSO Victim Services Division at just five months old, becoming the first crime victim therapy dog in the state of South Carolina in October 2017. In 2018, thanks to Caj’s work and impact within our community, the MCSO Victim Services Division was honored with the National Sheriff’s Association Crime Victim Service Award.
Caj quickly became a mascot not only for the Sheriff’s Office, but for Marion County as a whole. Over his eight years of service, Caj made hundreds of visits to local schools, adult day cares, nursing homes, and countless other places—wherever he was invited to spread comfort, love, and joy.
One of Caj’s greatest accomplishments was helping children form positive connections with law enforcement. For years, if you asked students in our schools who the Sheriff of Marion County was, the answer was almost always the same: “Caj”—said with boundless enthusiasm.
Caj will be deeply missed by our community, and his loss is felt profoundly among our staff. He also taught us important lessons early on—never leave food unattended, and if you do, be prepared to share.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Caj’s “mama” and handler, Tammy Erwin. Caj worked alongside Tammy every day and was truly a member of her family, growing up with her children. She provided him with exceptional love and care until his final moments.
Sheriff Wallace shared, “Caj was a household name. There is no telling how many lives he touched in his lifetime.”
The loss of Comfort Caj is immeasurable, but his legacy of compassion, trust, and comfort will live on.
*Special thanks to Dillon Animal Hospital staff, Drs. Hooker and Lucius, as well as Cooper Funeral Home for their phenomenal service to Caj these last two days.
Marion County Sheriff’s Office Crime Therapy Dog Dies
