The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) released body camera footage on Friday related to the fatal shooting of a dog in Canoga Park. The incident occurred when officers responded to reports of screams from an apartment. The dog, a 2-year-old golden Saint Bernard doodle named Jameson, was shot after officers believed it charged at them.
Officers later discovered that the woman’s screams were due to celebrating the New York Knicks’ NBA Finals victory over the San Antonio Spurs. In the footage edited by the LAPD, the woman can be heard saying the dog was not aggressive, while officers instructed residents to secure the dog. The video shows an officer firing four shots as Jameson moved toward him, barking.
The officer’s face was blurred in the video, which is unusual, according to NBC4 investigative reporter Eric Leonard. The LAPD stated that Jameson weighed 106 pounds at the time of the shooting.
Marie Marseille, Jameson’s owner, recounted the incident, describing her pet as playful and energetic. She witnessed the shooting firsthand and questioned the characterization of Jameson as charging.
The LAPD’s Internal Affairs Division has initiated an investigation into the shooting, separate from the ongoing use-of-force investigation.
Mayor Karen Bass expressed concern over the shooting and emphasized the need for transparency. In a statement, Bass called the footage disturbing and the incident tragic. She stressed the importance of reviewing the LAPD’s policies on handling dog encounters. Bass has discussed these concerns with the LAPD chief and the police commission.
The LAPD’s current use-of-force directive on dog encounters, obtained by NBC4 Investigates, outlines various tactics for managing hostile dogs, including voice commands and non-lethal tools. Deadly force is permitted if there is a reasonable threat of death or serious injury to officers or others.
The investigation into the shooting is expected to take up to a year. As more evidence is gathered, the LAPD’s understanding of the event may evolve.
Supreme Court Decision Challenges Religious Freedom for Inmates 
Former Northern Ireland Political Leader Found Guilty of Child Sex Abuse 
Australia’s Largest Cocaine Seizure Uncovered 
NYPD Officer Shoots Driver of Stolen Car in Bronx 
Pickleball Dispute in Florida Leads to Assault Charges 
Justice Department Memo on Disability Rights Raises Concern