Press Release
Wednesday, August 17, 2022PRESS RELEASE: Traffic Enforcement Contact Led to Discharge of Firearm at Aggressive Dogs
This morning, August 17, 2022, at approximately 10:48 a.m., officers assigned to the Turlock Police Department Crime Prevention Unit and Code Enforcement Division, were conducting a traffic enforcement contact on a recreational vehicle, illegally parked in the 2600 block of Polous Drive.
As a Neighborhood Resource Officer (N.R.O.) approached the side door of the vehicle, two aggressive dogs emerged and charged at the officer. In an effort to get the dogs to stop, the officer retreated as he discharged his canister of pepper spray (Oleoresin Capsicum). As the officer was retreating, he lost footing and fell to the ground. Realizing the canister of pepper spray was depleted, and the dogs were still aggressing toward him, the officer drew his firearm and was forced to shoot at one of the dogs. This was done in defense of himself and a nearby Code Enforcement Officer.
After the officer discharged a single gunshot, both dogs retreated back into the recreational vehicle. The owner of the dogs came out of the recreational vehicle and cooperated with the involved officers. An investigation into the discharge of the firearm is being completed in accordance with Turlock Police Policy.
Members of the Turlock Police Department Animal Services Unit responded to the location and took custody of one dog, which suffered from what appeared to be non-life threatening injuries, resulting from the gunshot.
Lieutenant Holeman said, “Although this unfortunate incident could have been avoided, had the dogs been properly contained, the Turlock Police Department will ensure the injured dog gets medical treatment. We are pleased that neither of our officers, or the dog owner, were injured as a result of this incident.”
The Turlock Police Department asks that anyone with information, to call Detective Brandon Bertram at (209) 664-7323. You can also contact the Turlock Police Department’s Tip Line at (209) 668-5550 extension 6780 or email at tpdtipline@turlock.ca.us.
The Turlock Police Department is an active participant in the Crime Stoppers Program. Callers can leave an anonymous tip by calling Crime Stoppers at (209) 521-4636 and may be eligible for a cash reward.
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This information is being released by Turlock Police Department Sergeant Michael Parmley.
Any media requests should contact: Sergeant Michael Parmley
Office of Professional Standards
Turlock Police Department
Office phone - (209) 664-7345
Email – mparmley@turlock.ca.us
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