Officer fired; case will be give to grand jury
Escambia County (Ala.) Sheriff Heath Jackson said the department’s K-9 dog died after being left inside a vehicle and the K-9 officer has been terminated and an investigation is ongoing.
Sheriff Jackson said the incident occurred on Oct. 11 after the K-9 deputy finished a night shift and subsequently left the dog in the car. The deputy discovered the dead dog after waking up.
Jackson said following the preliminary investigation the K-9 deputy was terminated.
“We are committed to ensuring accountability and transparency in this matter and a thorough investigation is ongoing,” Sheriff Jackson said. “Additionally, the case will be presented to a grand jury for further review.”
Sheriff Jackson also said he is reviewing the protocols to prevent such a tragedy from happening in the future, noting that his office is committed to the safety and care of all its personnel, including K-9s.
“As your sheriff, I want to express my heartfelt remorse for this incident,” Jackson said. “Our K-9s are invaluable members of our law enforcement family, dedicated to serving and protecting our community. Their well-being is of utmost importance and we take this situation very seriously.”
