Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass promised a “thorough and transparent” investigation Wednesday 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 Saturday night to reports of screams coming from the apartment. The LAPD said shots were fired after the dog charged at them.
Officers later learned the woman was screaming in reaction to the New York Knicks NBA Finals victory over the San Antonio Spurs.
“Every life lost to violence is a tragedy, and we know that the devastating loss of Jameson will be felt by his family forever,” Bass said in a statement Wednesday morning. “I have spoken directly to the Chief to ensure a full investigation and accountability for any wrongdoing.
“I will make sure that the investigation is thorough and transparent so that Angelenos have a complete understanding of what happened to Jameson and this family.”
Several official citizen complaints have been received by the Los Angeles Police Department about the shooting, law enforcement sources told NBC4 Investigates. 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.
In a statement, the LAPD said officers were speaking to the woman when a large dog at her side was barking at officers. The department said when she re-opened the door after being asked to secure her dog and the dog allegedly charged at an officer, prompting them to open fire.
“Next thing I know, he was on the ground,” owner Marie Marseille said. “I see the officer shoot him twice. I did see that. I was right there when it happened.
“I don’t know if charged is the right word. Jameson, he is a very playful dog, very happy and energetic and excited, if he barked. He has never bitten anyone.
According to a 2023 LAPD “Use of Force Directive” on dog encounters that NBC4 Investigates obtained, 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.