The San Antonio Police Department has been facing sharp criticism by the public after arresting a homeless man and leaving the man’s distraught dog, Rusty, to chase the police cruiser in heavy traffic.
An internal investigation is currently ongoing to determine if the officer involved did not follow proper protocol.
Social media outrage erupted after the heartbreaking video on February 17, 2026 went viral showing the confused dog barking and running after the cruiser. People viewing the video criticized the police officer’s alleged zero regard for the dog’s life and how there had obviously been no plan or arrangements to make sure the dog was safe.
In the video, Rusty can be seen running around the patrol car as it prepares to leave the parking lot. Casso tries calling out to Rusty, but Rusty can then be seen running alongside the patrol car as it goes down Southcross.
The video appeared to show the police cruiser nearly striking the dog with no officer known to have contacted the City of San Antonio Animal Care to pick him up; as the dog was put in grave danger while running in panic mode for his owner in traffic.
Late Monday night, Rusty was found near the gas station where the police had reportedly arrested his owner.
An eyewitness, Emily Casso, who volunteers with animal services, recorded the incident and with help from the community was able to find Rusty a foster home.
Video:
Rusty is safe. He reportedly has been vet checked and neutered.
Please be respectful when contacting the police department.
San Antonio Police Department: (210) 207-7273
Internal Affairs: (210) 207-7345
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