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In a highly contentious trial in Salt Lake City, Utah, a jury has acquitted police K-9 officer Nickolas Pearce of aggravated assault charges related to a 2020 incident where his K-9 partner, Tuco, attacked a suspect during an arrest, reported KHL.com.
The jury's decision came after four days of intense testimony, during which Pearce defended his actions, stating he believed the suspect, Jeffery Ryans, was not cooperating and was preparing to flee, the article noted.
Ryans, however, testified he was complying with officers' commands and that the attack left him with a lasting leg injury, impacting his ability to work, KHL.com reported.
Deputy Salt Lake County attorney Andrew Deesing argued Pearce's decision to deploy the K-9 was unwarranted, as Ryans was not posing an immediate threat. This sentiment was echoed by Wendell Nope, an expert in K-9 procedures, who testified Pearce's commands were inflammatory and instilled fear, the article reported.
The trial also shed light on the Salt Lake City Police Department's K-9 apprehension program, which was suspended following the incident. Prosecutors attempted to call Police Chief Mike Brown to testify, but the article noted their request was denied by Judge William Kendall, who feared it would prejudice the jury.
Pearce's attorney, Nathan Evershed, argued officers must make split-second decisions in dangerous situations. However, critics maintained proper procedures were not followed, leading to unnecessary harm to Ryans, reported KHL.com.
The verdict has sparked debates about police use of force and the need for reform within law enforcement agencies, particularly in cases involving K-9 units, the article noted.
