Police officer sacked after canine assault on unarmed truck driver in Ohio

A police officer in Ohio has been sacked after he launched a canine to assault a surrendering unarmed truck driver.

Officer Ryan Speakman was dismissed with instant impact, after he “did not meet the standards and expectations” of the pressure in the course of the incident, the Circleville Police division has stated.

It comes after 23-year-old truck driver Jadarrius Rose was pursued by the Ohio State Highway Patrol on 4 July after failing to cease his truck that was “missing a left rear mud flap”, in response to an incident report.

Bodycam footage exhibits Mr Speakman unleash the canine – which bites and pulls Rose to the bottom – regardless of the actual fact he was standing in entrance of his car along with his fingers raised.

Another officer may also be heard yelling, “do not release the dog”.

Following an investigation by a police evaluation board, a spokesperson stated “the department’s policy for the use of canines was followed in the apprehension and arrest”.

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They added that the Pennsylvania-based canine coaching facility, Shallow Creek Kennels Inc – which educated the canine in query – confirmed that its coaching protocols had been adopted, however service canine are being despatched for analysis and annual coaching.

Despite the evaluation board’s findings, Mr Speakman was sacked.

“We know the video of the incident is upsetting and has attracted widespread attention and comments,” Circleville Police stated.

“Circleville’s canine teams of dogs and officers are trained and certified to meet current Ohio Peace Officer Training Commission-recognised standards.”

Rose was handled in hospital for canine bites and later charged with failure to conform.

He advised 911 dispatchers that officers had been “trying to kill” him and that he did not really feel secure pulling his car over.

It is just not clear why he didn’t instantly cease the truck.