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Richmond Police Defend Tasing Dog During DUI Hit-and-Run Arrest

Officials describe the Taser as a nonlethal alternative following online criticism of bodycam footage.

Overview

  • Police say officers spent about 16 minutes trying to de-escalate before using a Taser on the aggressive dog to complete the arrest.
  • Authorities identified the suspect as 42-year-old Cody Odom, who was pursued on Monday and now faces DUI and hit-and-run charges.
  • Bodycam video shows the dog lunging as officers urged the owner to secure it, and police said the animal had bitten the owner.
  • Richmond police said animal control could not respond in time, leading officers to choose a Taser, a decision a retired San Jose officer said likely averted a shooting.
  • The dog was examined by Contra Costa County Animal Services, found to have no major injuries, treated, and later released back to its owner.