LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell issued a statement on Wednesday evening, June 17, promising the department’s commitment to transparency after an officer shot a beloved family dog while responding to a domestic call about a “screaming woman” from a neighbor at the apartment complex in Canoga Park, California.
In his statement McDonnell included that a specialized department unit has been launched:
There is no incident more serious than when an officer fires a service weapon. …thorough, multi-layered examination…
The dog, Jameson, a two year old Berdoodle, had been wearing a New York Knicks jersey when officers knocked on the apartment door informing the family their neighbor had been concerned with the screaming coming from the apartment and that she was worried the woman had been in danger. The resident, Marie Marseille not in danger at all; was actually celebrating with family.
When officers knocked on the apartment door, they could hear Jameson barking on the other side and asked the family to secure their dog. As Marseille opened the front door slightly to speak with the officers, Jameson squeezed by her and ran out into the hallway. According to the officer, the dog “charged” at him; that’s when the officer drew his firearm and opened fire. The dog died minutes later.
The emotional case has drawn intense public scrutiny and in a GoFundMe fundraiser has garnered more than $185,000.
Since Jameson’s death, supporters have left flowers, candles, stuffed toys and handwritten emotional notes in memory of the two year od Saint Berdoodle. No details about the situation and how the tragedy unfolded has been released, however investigators are currently reviewing evidence about the officer’s actions, department policies, protocols and witness statements.
LAPD officers face unknown dangers on a daily basis, but I expect them to exercise sound judgment, restraint, and respect for life whenever possible.
The family has since hired an attorney who stated Jameson posed no threat. Calls have been sent to LAPD to release the body camera footage, surveillance video, dispatch recordings and all radio communications during the evening of celebration dog owner Marie Marseille and her family, had been marking for the New York Knicks’ championship victory.
The tragic incident drew the attention of Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass who stated she spoke directly with McDonnell and ordered a full investigation.
Follow the National Pet Rescue on Facebook for the latest animal related news.
