VISALIA (KMJ) — A burglary suspect has been put behind bars after he allegedly punched a Visalia Police K9, while officers were trying to apprehend him.
Juan Padilla Jimenez is said to have thrown a river rock through the glass door of a bank at the city’s Mooney Boulevard and Caldwell Avenue around 4.15am Tuesday, went in, and refused to come out again.
“He refused to cooperate with officers or just exit the building,” said Sergeant Damon Maurice.
“At this point one of our police K9s was deployed and went into the bank and was able to apprehend the suspect. As that apprehension was taking place, Mr. Jimenez was punching the dog several times.”
The 41 year old was eventually arrested and charged with burglary, vandalism, assault on a K9, and resisting arrest with force. He was later booked into Tulare County Jail.
Sergeant Maurice said K9 officer Xero was not seriously hurt and will continue his regular duties.
“Luckily he escaped with minor injuries. He will be just fine.”
Hear the report from KMJ’s Dominic McAndrew as it aired:
