Rep. Aaron Bean, R-Fla., has introduced the ‘Leo K9 Protection Act’ to address the rising number of attacks on federal law enforcement animals and their handlers, following heightened tensions during anti-ICE protests. The legislation, named after fallen K9 Leo, who was killed in the line of duty, seeks to impose steeper penalties, with potential sentences of up to 15 years for those who harm these animals.
Bean’s proposal comes after the Department of Homeland Security reported a 690% increase in assaults against immigration officers, which includes incidents involving K9s and mounted units. The bill would expand federal protections for these animals to cover local, state, and federal police animals assisting federal agencies. It also mandates that the Department of Transportation provide a ‘safe harbor’ exception for individuals transporting injured police animals for veterinary care.
The legislation was announced at a ceremony outside the Capitol, with the support of Leo’s handler, Sgt. Justin Tortora, who referred to the K9 as ‘family.’ Tortora emphasized the need to ensure that working K9s receive the urgent care they deserve, preventing further loss of these partner animals in the line of duty.
In Los Angeles, at least two individuals were arrested for assaulting police horses during anti-ICE riots. Dana Whitson of Arizona and Iran Castro of California faced charges for their actions. Debbie Johnson of K9s United praised the legislation as a ‘defining moment’ in the fight to protect federal working K9s.