Photo: L.A. County Sheriff's Department
COMPTON (CNS) - A Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department dog was shot and wounded after by an armed suspect in Compton Wednesday with his bulletproof vest absorbing the gunshot.
Members of the department's Special Enforcement Bureau personnel responded to the 100 block of East Spruce Street, near Willowbrook Avenue, at approximately 6:19 p.m. to assist deputies from the Compton Sheriff's Station, who were searching for an assault with a deadly weapon suspect who was armed with a handgun, according to the Sheriff's Information Bureau.
The suspect emerged from where he was hiding and shot Kjeld, a search dog for the Special Enforcement Bureau, in the right shoulder area, according to the department. Deputies did not return fire and later arrested the suspect.
Kjeld was taken to a veterinarian hospital and was treated for his injury. He has since been released.
"The heroic actions by K9-Kjeld were crucial in saving the lives of our deputies and even the suspect who shot him, demonstrating extraordinary bravery and dedication," the department said.
The bulletpoof vest may have saved the dog's life, according to a Special Enforcement Bureau captain whose first name was not available.
Anyone who has information about this shooting was asked to call the Compton Sheriff's Station at 310-568-4800. Anonymous callers may call Crime Stoppers at 800-222-8477 or send tips to lacrimestoppers.org.