Sheriff: Ramsey Co. Deputy Caught On Camera Abusing K-9
MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- A Ramsey County Sheriff's deputy faces criminal charges after he was caught on surveillance cameras abusing his K-9 partner at a Carlton casino.
The Carlton County Sheriff's Office says 48-year-old Brett Arthur Berry was at Black Bear Casino on June 14 for a canine training and certification event.
Deputies were called to the casino just before 3 a.m. on June 15 on a report of animal cruelty caught on camera involving Berry, who had been asked to leave the casino's Cobalt Lounge earlier in the night by deputies due to staff complaints.
Berry was observed on camera leaving the lounge, going back to his hotel room and then leaving with his K-9 partner five minutes later. He was then observed carrying the dog to his car while being visibly upset.
The accused was next seen on camera picking up the dog by the collar and throwing it to the ground. The K-9 then ran back to the casino and got trapped between entryway doors. Berry was seen catching up to his partner, and then repeatedly hitting the K-9.
The Ramsey County Sheriff's Office released a written statement Friday, saying they are "troubled" by the allegations.
"Deputy Berry was sent home from the K-9 trials and placed on administrative leave," the sheriff's office said. "The K-9 was evaluated by a veterinarian and no injuries were found. The K-9 partner is currently in the care of others."
Berry was arrested and has been charged with two misdemeanor counts: one for assaulting a public safety dog and one for animal cruelty.
He is an 18-year veteran of the department and has received letters of recognition in the past. One complaint has been filed against Berry in his career, involving "poor public relations" during a traffic stop.