A disturbing case of animal abuse was captured on video near Union Station on November 16. Witnesses reported seeing a man repeatedly striking a dog, prompting them to call the police. However, no officers responded initially, leading the witnesses to post the video on social media, where it quickly gained attention.
CJ Kim, founder of Good Tails Rescue, and Sandra Viveros of Compton Paw Patrol, took matters into their own hands. They reported the abuse again to the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) and worked to rescue the dog, named Kiba. Kim stated, “I suddenly heard a dog squeal, and immediately I saw the man striking the dog, so I called 911.”
When officers arrived, they spoke with the individuals claiming ownership of Kiba but did not remove the dog, despite LAPD training materials instructing officers to remove animals in immediate danger. The rescuers eventually paid the couple $200 to relinquish Kiba, expressing frustration at the lack of police action.
The LAPD issued a statement about the incident:
“We are currently working to gather additional information about this incident and the responding officers’ actions. If our review determines that appropriate action was not taken, the matter will be addressed in accordance with Department policy. The LAPD takes all allegations of animal cruelty extremely seriously. The Department recently partnered with LA Animal Services on a new initiative from the Mayor’s Office to improve the response to animal neglect and cruelty in the downtown area.”
The case has raised questions about police training and protocol adherence in handling animal cruelty reports. Kim expressed a desire for improved officer training, stating, “I would love for LAPD to train their officers in regards to animal cruelty cases because clearly there is a disconnect.”
Mayor Bass also issued a statement saying:
“The Mayor’s Office finds the actions shown in the video absolutely reprehensible. It is because of these types of incidents that Mayor Bass launched a new initiative on November 6 to investigate allegations of animal cruelty in Skid Row. Although in the early stages, the initiative is already making a difference. There is an open investigation into this incident through a partnership with LAPD and LA Animal Services. Thanks to the support of a local animal rescue, and enhanced communication between LAPD and LA Animal Services as a result of Mayor Bass’ initiative, the dog is now in the care of LA Animal Services and being evaluated for injuries. Every action we take for animals builds a more humane city.”
**WARNING – DISTURBING CONTENT**
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