An unfortunate incident involving a Greenfield Police Department K-9 and an off-duty New Palestine police officer resulted in the death of the canine, per reports from local sources. The encounter occurred on Monday when K-9 Ace, a police dog from the Greenfield Police Department, got loose from his handler's residence in New Palestine, while the officer was away from home.
During this unexpected escape, K-9 Ace came across a neighboring off-duty New Palestine police officer and bit him, causing severe injuries to the officer, FOX59 reports. The involved officer, whose actions to subdue the canine were not specified in initial statements by Greenfield Police Department, was able to subdue K-9 Ace but, the intervention led to the animal's death.
Further details provided by Greenfield Deputy Chief Charles McMichael clarified that no weapons were used in the incident. "The officer he bit is familiar with working dogs and knew how to get Ace to let go," McMichael said, as obtained by CBS4 Indy. "Unfortunately, Ace died as a result." The nature of the confrontation has sparked an internal review of K-9 procedures and safeguards within the Greenfield Police Department.
Expressions of sympathy and support have been extended by the Greenfield Police Department to both the New Palestine officer for his recovery and to Officer Freeman, K-9 Ace’s handler. "Our thoughts, prayers, and full support are with (the New Palestine police officer) and his family during this extremely difficult time," stated GPD Chief Brian Hartman in a release captured by WISH-TV. "We also extend our heartfelt condolences to Officer Freeman and the entire Greenfield Police Department on the loss of K-9 Ace, a dedicated service animal and valued member of our department," Hartman added.
The incident remains under investigation by the Greenfield Police Department, which has not yet disclosed the specific events leading to the K-9's fatality. The review of the department's K-9 unit aims to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
