A lawsuit has been filed against the city of Los Angeles and several unidentified LAPD officers after a dog was shot and killed during a welfare check in Canoga Park. The dog’s owner, Marie Marseille, claims that the officer used excessive force and violated the LAPD’s policy on the use of force against animals.
Incident Details
According to the lawsuit, the incident occurred on June 13 when officers responded to a report of a woman screaming at an apartment complex. The woman, Marseille, was celebrating the New York Knicks’ NBA championship win. Her dog, Jameson, a 2-year-old Labradoodle, was barking and emerged from the apartment, prompting an officer to shoot and kill the dog.
The LAPD has stated that the department does not comment on pending litigation. However, LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell has vowed to conduct a full investigation into the shooting. Marseille’s lawsuit alleges that the officer’s actions were reckless and threatened her safety.
Policy and Procedure
The LAPD’s policy on the use of force against animals states that officers should only use force when an animal poses an immediate threat of injury. Marseille’s lawsuit claims that Jameson did not pose such a threat and that the officer’s actions were unjustified.
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass has called for a reevaluation of the LAPD’s policies on the use of force and pets. The incident has sparked outrage and concern among pet owners and animal rights advocates.
Original reporting: NBC4 Los Angeles — read the source article.