Las Vegas, NV — A K9 handler with the Clark County School District is facing misdemeanor charges in a case where his police dog died after being left in a vehicle for over six hours. The handler, identified as James Harris, pleaded not guilty to amended charges of torturing, injuring, abandoning, and starving an animal, court records reveal.
The tragic incident occurred on Nov. 14, when K9 Marley succumbed after being left in a vehicle kennel by Harris, who was on assignment at Foothill High School. Documents filed in court indicate that Harris parked the vehicle around 6:55 a.m. and did not return until the afternoon. Surveillance footage from the school supports claims that Marley was not tended to throughout that period.
According to a police affidavit, Harris had deactivated the vehicle’s heat sensor – a device meant to prevent overheating by activating cooling measures when temperatures climb too high. This sensor, if operational, would have potentially prevented the tragic outcome by rolling down windows and turning on an alarm. Harris has not provided an explanation for why he disconnected this crucial safety feature.
The canine was eventually transported to an animal hospital but was pronounced dead upon arrival. An autopsy later determined that Marley died from complications related to heat exposure, with no other health issues detected.
The death has been ruled as an act of negligence by Clark County District Attorney Steve Wolfson, which led to the misdemeanor charges against Harris. Wolfson highlighted that while the actions were grievous, there was no evidence of malicious intent required to elevate the charges to a felony.
The case has cast a spotlight on potential legislative changes concerning animal cruelty. Assembly Bill 381, also known as “Reba’s Law,” named after another dog that died in severe heat conditions, is currently under consideration in Nevada. This bill, sponsored by Republican Assemblywoman Melissa Hardy, aims to impose stricter penalties for animal cruelty, particularly in cases involving recklessness.
Furthermore, discussions are ongoing about introducing a new category of felony for individuals whose known or reckless actions result in the severe mistreatment of animals. Advocates of the bill argue this will close existing loopholes and ensure higher accountability.
The push for legislative reform comes amid other high-profile animal cruelty cases, including the charges against two individuals responsible for the death of the dog Reba, who suffered a fatal heatstroke after being abandoned in a sealed crate.
Harris is scheduled for another court appearance on April 23 to discuss the status of negotiations. He currently remains on paid administrative leave under the terms agreed upon with his bargaining unit.
This story serves as a poignant reminder of the responsibilities and legal obligations of those tasked with the care of service animals. It also underscores the ongoing discussions within Nevada’s legislative framework aimed at enhancing protections for animals.
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