LAPD Withholds Officer’s Identity Amid Investigation of Dog Shooting

The Los Angeles Police Department has kept the identity of the officer involved in the shooting of a Golden Saint Berdoodle last month in Canoga Park confidential, citing threats to the officer’s safety. Following the release of the incident video, LAPD Capt. Mike Bland informed The Times that the officer’s name remains undisclosed due to an ongoing investigation into threats against him. Under state law, police departments are required to disclose the names of officers involved in shootings, except when there is a proven threat.

On Tuesday, LAPD media relations reiterated their position. Brett Greenfield, the attorney representing the pet owner Marie Marseille, questioned this decision. He emphasized the need for transparency and accountability for his client and her 100-pound dog, Jameson. Greenfield stated, “Transparency without accountability is meaningless. The people of Los Angeles can watch it, and they can reach their own conclusions. What they will see is deeply troubling.”

Thursday saw the filing of a civil rights lawsuit in federal court by attorneys for Marseille against the city of Los Angeles. The lawsuit seeks damages, claiming excessive use of force.

The incident involved the dog being shot on June 13 as it emerged from Marseille’s apartment. Two officers visited the apartment after a neighbor reported hearing distressing exclamations from inside. Bodycam footage shows the dog barking loudly when Marseille first opened the door, wearing a Knicks T-shirt. The officers asked Marseille if the dog was secured, and when she closed the door, the second officer put his gun away after initially drawing it.

Marselle reopened the door, insisting the dog was not aggressive. Despite reassurance, Jameson exited the apartment once more. The dog barked but did not display aggression. The second officer drew his gun and fired four shots at Jameson. The lawsuit argues Jameson showed no intention to attack and categorizes the officer’s actions as reckless, inconsistent with LAPD policy and guidelines on canine encounters.

The lawsuit asserts, “An energetic dog—one that is excited, moving, barking—is not necessarily an aggressive dog, and the distinction matters under both LAPD policy and the constitutional standard.”

At a news conference, Greenfield criticized the officers’ response to the welfare check. He stated the video captured profanity and aggressive behavior, highlighting the officer’s failure to rely on proper training and restraint.

LAPD has not commented on the case, citing the ongoing litigation. The incident led to public outcry and scrutiny. LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell assured a thorough investigation. There is political pressure on LAPD and Mayor Karen Bass to release full body camera footage. The currently released video obscures the officer’s face.