A 13-year-old boy has pleaded guilty to fatally shooting a police dog.
The young lad, who can’t be named for legal reasons, shot and killed a Belgian shepherd called K9 Bumi after police pulled him over in a stolen car.
The boy fled from the vehicle alongside two other teenagers.
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An altercation broke out, during which shots were fired at law enforcement.
K9 Bumi was hit multiple times.
Richland County Sheriff Leon Lott said that while the dog was wearing a bulletproof vest, he was struck in an area it failed to protect.
He said: “Bumi did have a vest on, a ballistic vest, but it doesn’t cover up underneath.
“There’s a certain spot and unfortunately that’s where the 13-year-old shot him.”
While K9 Bumi was taken to a local veterinary hospital for treatment, he was later pronounced dead.
The boy pleaded guilty to shooting the dog, assault, battery in the first degree, and possessing a firearm under the age of 18, according to a press conference.
A 16-year-old boy, also present, was charged with obstruction.
Meanwhile, Damian Brown, 17, was charged with grand larceny, accessory before the fact, possession of a weapon under the age of 18 and unlawful carry, among other charges.
The 13-year-old’s mother was also charged with accessory after the fact of a felony.
The pooch was described as a beloved member of Richland County Sheriff’s Department, in Carolina, in the US, after the shocking incident on 23 December, as reported by Need To Know.
K9 Bumi was honoured with a funeral by his department and his remains were covered by an American flag.
The department captioned a video of the event: “K9 Bumi and his handler K9 Specialist Ware had a bond like no other.
“We will miss you K9 Bumi, you will never be forgotten.”
A memorial page for fallen officers now features a page dedicated to K9 Bumi.
A tribute from retired Chief of Police Don P. Jensen Sr. read: “Police K9 Bumi has left a lasting impact on the community through exceptional service and unwavering dedication.
“Bravery in the face of danger and commitment to ensuring public safety are commendable and greatly appreciated.”
