Overview
- Local outlet KFOX14 first reported the family’s claim that a Border Patrol agent shot their Rottweiler, Chop, during a Sept. 9 search of their El Paso home.
- CBP confirmed a use-of-force incident involving a canine that morning during an investigation into alien smuggling and said its Office of Professional Responsibility is reviewing the case.
- The family says agents were in plain clothes, the son put Chop in a bathroom before allowing entry, an agent entered, opened the door, and fired, and no aid was given as the dog died.
- WeRateDogs shared the story with harsh language, posted CBP and Rep. Veronica Escobar contact information, and incorrectly labeled the agents as ICE, drawing hundreds of thousands of likes.
- Snopes and other national coverage highlighted the misattribution and emphasized that no public conclusions or disciplinary actions have been announced.