d-degree counts of purposefully, knowingly or recklessly causing bodily injury to a living animal by failing to provide necessary care, resulting in death.

Henderson was placed on administrative leave with pay following the K-9's deaths and has been suspended pending the outcome of his court case, according to NJ.com

A post-mortem examination of the K-9s determined Boomer and Kip likely died from hyperthermia/heat stroke, the outlet reported, citing the affidavit filed with the charges.

Rip was a patrol and drug-detection K-9 who joined the sheriff's office in 2023, while Boomer specialized in bomb detection since joining the department in 2021.

Henderson originally joined the sheriff's office in 2009, before taking a brief stint elsewhere and returning in 2017, according to the publication.

In 2022, he graduated from the police K-9 training program and later became head of the agency's entire K-9 unit.

Salem County Sheriff Chuck Miller said,  The loss of these loyal partners has had a profound impact on our agency, our law enforcement community, and the citizens they faithfully served,  in a statement Wednesday.

 Rip and Boomer exemplified the highest standards of service, loyalty, and dedication. Their contributions to public safety and their commitment to duty will not be forgotten,  Miller said.

 We continue to honor the memory of Rip and Boomer and extend our thoughts to all those affected by this tragic loss.