Canton K-9 officer made ‘clear violations’ during arrest: Chief
Editor’s Note: The video above is previous coverage on this story.
CANTON, Ohio (WJW) – The Canton chief of police announced Friday that a K-9 officer had “clear violations of department policy” in a use of force incident.
Chief John Gabbard said he is recommending that Officer Nicholas Casto be terminated.
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Gabbard made the recommendation to the director of public safety.
The incident stems from an arrest on May 30.
Police body camera video shows Casto’s K-9 partner attack a suspect who is on the ground in handcuffs.
While the dog is attacking the suspect, an officer yells, “Stop resisting arrest.”
The K-9 is on the man for at least 10 seconds.
Police said prior to putting the man in handcuffs, he made verbal threats to the dog.
Casto yelled, “He’s under arrest for taunting the dog.”
Casto has been on leave since then.
The man was taken to the hospital for treatment, but Canton police would not elaborate on his injuries.
Gabbard said he had “no choice” but to recommend termination.
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“My review of this incident revealed clear violations of department policy and actions that are not in line with our mission, our values or our training,” Gabbard said in a press release.
Casto has been with the department since 2014.
Read the full quote from Chief Gabbard below.
I have always, and will continue to advocate for the incredible officers who serve this community. I am dedicated to professionalism and community service, and cannot champion those values without also demanding accountability from those who do not meet my high expectations. My review of this incident revealed clear violations of department policy and actions that are not in line with our mission, our values or our training. To preserve the integrity of this department, to demonstrate my commitment to our values, and out of my responsibility to the officers and community I serve, I had no choice but to recommend to the Director of Public Safety the termination of Officer Casto’s employment with the Canton Police Department.
Attorney Ken Abbarno with the firm DiCello Levitt, which is representing the arrested suspects, said Casto’s recommended termination is a “first step” in accountability, but more needs to be done.
He said they’ll be watching a pre-disciplinary hearing for Casto, which they expect will happen later this month. They wonder if Casto could be criminally charged, and think criminal charges should be explored.
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