Officer Jason Ellis & K9 Figo
Officer Jason Ellis
Born: September 22, 1979
EOW: May 25, 2013
Served: 7 years
Officer Jason Ellis was a devoted husband, father, and public servant who gave his life in the line of duty protecting the Bardstown community. Born on September 22, 1979, Jason was a former college baseball standout who followed a deeper calling into law enforcement.
He joined the Bardstown Police Department in 2006 and served as its only K-9 officer alongside his loyal partner, Figo. Known for his integrity, compassion, and dedication, Jason was a beloved figure on and off duty.
On May 25, 2013, Officer Ellis was ambushed and killed while clearing debris from an exit ramp—a targeted act that remains unsolved. His passing left a lasting impact on his family, colleagues, and the entire Bardstown community.
Jason’s legacy lives on in the lives he touched and the service he gave. He is forever honored, forever missed, and never forgotten.
K9 Figo
K-9 Figo, the loyal German Shepherd partner of Bardstown Police Officer Jason Ellis, passed away on May 23, 2017, just two days before the fourth anniversary of Officer Ellis’s tragic death on May 25, 2013.
Figo served alongside Officer Ellis for six years. After Officer Ellis’s death, Figo was retired from active duty and went to live with Ellis’s family, where he spent his remaining years.
Figo gained national attention when he was photographed placing his paw on Officer Ellis’s casket during the funeral service—a poignant image that resonated with many. He was laid to rest near Officer Ellis at High View Cemetery in Chaplin, Kentucky, symbolizing their enduring bond.
Their partnership and story continue to be remembered as a testament to the deep connection between officers and their K-9 companions.