Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass has promised a “thorough and transparent” investigation into the police shooting death of a dog at a Canoga Park apartment. The 2-year-old golden Saint Bernard doodle, named Jameson, was shot and killed after officers responded to reports of screams coming from the apartment. The LAPD said shots were fired after the dog charged at them.

Investigation Underway

Officers later learned the woman was screaming in reaction to the New York Knicks NBA Finals victory over the San Antonio Spurs. Mayor Bass stated, “Every life lost to violence is a tragedy, and we know that the devastating loss of Jameson will be felt by his family forever.” She has spoken directly to the Chief to ensure a full investigation and accountability for any wrongdoing.

The LAPD Internal Affairs Division has opened an investigation into the officer involved in the shooting, which is separate from a use of force investigation. Several official citizen complaints have been received by the Los Angeles Police Department about the shooting, law enforcement sources told NBC4 Investigates.

According to a 2023 LAPD “Use of Force Directive” on dog encounters, officers are told they have several tactics they can use against what they call “hostile dogs.” Those tactics include voice commands, spray, and fire extinguishers. The directive also states an officer can use deadly force when it’s reasonable to protect the officer or another person from the threat of death or serious bodily injury.

Original reporting: NBC4 Los Angeles — read the source article.