Incident Summary
The Los Angeles Police Department has released body camera footage showing an officer shooting and killing a dog named Jameson, a golden retriever-poodle mix, during a welfare check on Jordan Avenue in Canoga Park. The incident occurred on Saturday evening after police responded to reports of screaming from a residence.
Key Details
- The dog's owner, Marie Marseille, had been celebrating the New York Knicks' championship win, according to witnesses.
- The officer fired multiple shots; the released video was paused after the first gunshot.
- The family's attorney, Brett Greenfield, released a statement criticizing the officer's conduct.
- A neighbor who called 911 has apologized, stating they did not anticipate the outcome and have received online threats.
- LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell announced a comprehensive review of the shooting.
Statements from Involved Parties
Family's Attorney (Brett Greenfield): The statement called the video "shocking" and alleged that the officer had his firearm drawn from the beginning, used profanity, and focused on the dog's size. It claimed the dog was wearing a New York Knicks jersey inside its home and did not present an immediate threat. The attorney also noted that the owner was near the line of fire and that shots continued after the dog fell.
Neighbor (anonymous): The neighbor stated they heard screaming and called 911, believing it was a welfare check. They described the officers' response as "very hostile" and heard five gunshots. The neighbor apologized to the owner and said the incident has changed their view of LAPD.
LAPD: The department stated that the dog rushed toward officers and attacked them, prompting the shooting. The LAPD is conducting a comprehensive review.
“The officer had his firearm drawn from the beginning, used profanity, and focused on the dog's size. The dog was wearing a New York Knicks jersey inside its home and did not present an immediate threat.”
— Brett Greenfield, Family's Attorney
Public Response
- Activists and animal advocates gathered outside LAPD headquarters to protest the incident.
- A GoFundMe created in Jameson's name has raised nearly $200,000.