Police K-9 Attacks Teen, Not Suspect in VA Beach

A case of mistaken identity led to a brutal mauling of a Virginia Beach teenager by a K-9 police dog. News reports say the 13-year-old was heading home with his 9-year-old brother after playing video games at a neighbor’s home. When the boys went out the front door, the K-9 dog attacked the older boy while officers pointed a gun in his face.

Police say the dog was unleashed only after the boy attempted to run from officers, but the owner of the home where the incident occurred says that’s not how it happened. The boy had only walked a few feet from the porch of the home before being attacked. When police realized they had the wrong person, they called EMS for support. Then the officer disappeared from the scene.

VA Beach Police Policies

The Virginia Beach police department has issued a statement about the incident, saying that every use of force, including K-9 attacks, must be investigated by their Internal Affairs department. Because the incident is still under investigation, they had no official comment about the officer’s decision to release the dog on the teen.

Legal Options for the Family

The teen who was attacked is expected to make a full recovery, but he had to miss school and is on crutches because of his injuries. The younger boy suffered no physical injuries, but was apparently distraught by the incident. Attacks like this one can leave emotional scars that last a lifetime. Many dog bite victims develop serious phobias of canines. The family is reportedly working with an attorney to determine whether or not they will pursue legal action against the police department.

Virginia Personal Injury & Wrongful Death Lawyers

If you’ve been in injured in an accident, you should consult with a personal injury lawyer about your legal rights. Our personal injury lawyers have helped victims injured by the negligence of another for over 30 years. If you’d like to setup a free consultation to discuss your legal rights, contact us today 877-544-5323.