News

Released: June 19, 2020 - Friday, 08:32 PM

Deputy Involved Animal Shooting

Contact: Tony CipollaPhone: (805) 781-4547Date and time of incident: 6-15-20, Approximately 11:30 PMPlace of Occurrence: 7800 block of El Camino Real, AtascaderoVictim Information: N/ASuspect Information: N/AOn 6-15-20, Sheriff's Deputies were on patrol and traveling in the 7800 block of El Camino Real in Atascadero when they observed a business with the front door open and the lights off. There was a vehicle parked in front of the business with the trunk open with a man pushing a laundry cart walking toward the vehicle.
The Deputies exited their vehicle to investigate. They identified themselves as Sheriff's Deputies when suddenly two pit bull dogs ran from the business toward the Deputies. One of the Deputies, fearing the dog was about to attack him, fired three rounds at the animal, striking the dog.
The dog was transported to a local veterinarian and fortunately survived it's injuries, which were deemed non-life-threatening. The dog was released after treatment to the owner that day.
The Sheriff's Office has been in contact with the owner of the animals and worked with him and the veterinarian and has offered to pay for all the vet bills related to this incident.
It is always unfortunate when an animal is harmed. The Sheriff's Office has initiated an investigation into the circumstances of this incident. And it will be followed up with an investigation by the Sheriff's Office Professional Standards Unit.
No further information is available at this time.