Kent PD K-9 stabbed while officers took suspect into custody

KENT, Wash. — A K-9 with the Kent Police Department was stabbed Tuesday night as officers were apprehending a domestic violence and first-degree assault suspect.

At about 6:41 p.m., a Kent officer and his K-9 Kato were requested to assist in locating the suspect in Des Moines.

Kato tracked and found the suspect.

Police said as officers took the suspect into custody, the suspect stabbed Kato in the shoulder with a pocket knife.

Kato was taken to a veterinary clinic where he had surgery for his injuries. He is in stable condition.

“The suspect’s actions today could have easily resulted in deadly consequences. Incidents such as this remind us of how dangerous an officer’s job can be and the risks we encounter every day,” said Detective Melanie Frazier.

Kato is a German shepherd and has been working with officers for nearly two years.

KIRO