Two images were released by the Santa Fe County Sheriff's Office and provided to state police investigators. A Chihuahua or other small dog can be seen watching the action.
The state police have placed an officer on leave but have not confirmed that the officer is the same one seen in the photos.
"We are not disclosing the identity of the involved officer at this time," a state police public information officer wrote in an e-mail to POLICE. "Personnel matters are ongoing."