Body camera footage has been released in the investigation of a Los Angeles Police Department shooting involving a dog. The incident occurred after officers were called to a Canoga Park apartment.
The dog, a 2-year-old golden Saint Bernard doodle named Jameson, was shot after police responded to reports of screams from the apartment. The LAPD stated that the dog charged at the officers, prompting shots.
Later, it was revealed the woman in the apartment was reacting to the New York Knicks’ NBA Finals win. Jameson was wearing a New York Knicks shirt during the incident.
The LAPD mentioned that the officers encountered a barking dog when they arrived. They requested that the dog be secured, but when the door was reopened, the dog allegedly charged, leading to gunfire.
A video released by the LAPD shows the encounter. An officer fired four shots as Jameson moved towards him. The officer’s face is blurred in the footage, which is uncommon for body-worn videos, according to NBC4’s Eric Leonard.
The dog weighed 106 pounds. Marie Marseille, the owner, described Jameson as playful and not aggressive, mentioning he had never bitten anyone.
The LAPD Internal Affairs Division has initiated an investigation distinct from the use of force probe.
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass expressed concern over the footage. “What I saw is disturbing and tragic,” she said. Bass emphasized the importance of examining the LAPD’s force guidelines for pet encounters.
On Wednesday, Bass assured the public of a transparent investigation. She stressed the need for accountability and understanding of the incident.
An LAPD “Use of Force Directive” from 2023 outlines tactics for dealing with hostile dogs, such as voice commands and sprays. Deadly force is permitted when necessary to protect from severe injury or death.
The investigation might take up to a year, with perspectives possibly evolving as new evidence surfaces and is reviewed.
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