Richmond County Sheriff’s Office Says Deputy Unaware Patrol Vehicle Struck Dog

AUGUSTA, Ga. — The Richmond County Sheriff’s Office says an internal review found no criminal misconduct or policy violations after a patrol vehicle struck a dog in an incident that was captured on video and later circulated on social media.

According to the sheriff’s office, officials immediately launched a review after becoming aware of the video and quickly identified the deputy involved.

Investigators determined the deputy was responding to a traffic accident when the incident occurred. During the review, officials found that a dog entered the roadway and walked into the path of the patrol vehicle.

The sheriff’s office said the deputy was unaware the vehicle had struck the dog and therefore did not stop after the collision.

As part of the investigation, officials reviewed GPS data from the patrol vehicle and confirmed the deputy was not exceeding the posted speed limit at the time of the incident.

The case was documented under incident number 26-118702.

The sheriff’s office also cited Georgia law regarding animal control responsibilities. Under state law, dog owners or custodians are responsible for maintaining control of their animals when they are off the owner’s property. Augusta-Richmond County ordinances also prohibit dogs from being on public streets unless they are leashed and accompanied by a person or otherwise secured.

“The review found that the deputy was responding to a call for service, was operating within the posted speed limit, and was unaware that the patrol vehicle had struck the dog,” the sheriff’s office said in a statement. “The review did not identify any evidence of criminal misconduct or policy violations by the deputy.”

Officials acknowledged community concerns about the incident and noted that many residents consider pets to be members of their families.

“The Richmond County Sheriff’s Office recognizes that pets are valued members of many families, and we understand the concerns expressed by members of the community regarding this incident,” the agency stated.

The sheriff’s office said it remains committed to conducting thorough and objective reviews of incidents involving its personnel.