US cop fired after releasing attack dog on surrendered black driver
A police officer in Ohio was fired Wednesday for unleashing an attack dog – a German Shepherd – on a black truck driver who was already trying to surrender after a highway chase.
Officials said the actions of Ryan Speakman of Circleville police “did not meet the [required] standards and expectations”.
On July 4, law enforcement officers were responding to a request from the Ohio Highway Patrol about a commercial truck missing a mud flap that had failed to stop for inspection.
After a lengthy chase and use of tire deflation devices, the vehicle finally came to a halt on a state highway about 64 km south of Columbus.
Driver Was Not Armed. He Followed The Orders
Bodycam and dashcam footage showed the driver Jadarrius Rose surrounded by armed police officers and vehicles. He was ordered to “get on the ground or you’re going to get bit”.
Rose was not armed. He complied with the instructions and had his hands up in the air. But the attack dog was unleashed on him, nonetheless.
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It came despite repeated instructions from a state trooper to “not release the dog with his hands up.” Footage showed the animal pulling Rose to the ground in a grassy area near the road.
“Please get it off,” he could be heard screaming. He was treated at the scene before being arrested and charged with failure to comply, the AP reported. The driver has since been released.
Fresh Demonstration Planned For July 29
The Ohio Patrolmen’s Benevolent Association, a police union, said Speakman was fired “without just cause” and that he be compensated for the reputational damage.
Meanwhile, a social media campaign has called for a demonstration on Saturday. A Facebook group called Dismantle Circleville Police demanded the dropping of all charges against Rose.
In addition, it has also called for the dismissal of the officer involved and Police Chief Shawn Baer. Keep an eye out on The World Reviews for further updates on the situation.
