Aerial footage obtained by KSL TV played a crucial role in a police dog’s death during an officer-involved incident. The video helped track the suspect, who was later identified as a National Guard member, and aided in justifying the use of force by officers. The Utah Department of Public Safety’s helicopter provides valuable assistance in pursuits and ensuring public safety. KSLTV.com reported
SOUTH JORDAN: Aerial Video Key in Incident Resulting in Death of Police Dog
A recently released aerial video, obtained by KSL TV, has emerged as crucial evidence in an officer-involved incident that led to the unfortunate demise of a police dog. The incident took place during a pursuit in February 2022 when police were tailing Zachary Alvarenga, a 25-year-old National Guard member who was armed and had allegedly threatened a former co-worker with a gun.
As the situation escalated and it became unsafe for officers on the ground to closely pursue Alvarenga, the Utah Department of Public Safety (DPS) was called in for assistance. Utilizing their helicopter, the DPS was able to continue tracking Alvarenga’s precise location, providing valuable support from above.
According to Utah Highway Patrol Sergeant Nick Napierski, having aerial assistance offers significant advantages in such situations. He stated, “We’re going to follow that guy, that guy’s not going to get away, we’re going to track him right down until he parks the vehicle, goes stationary, then walk ground units in to apprehend him.”
The DPS helicopter camera captured several hours of the pursuit, including the moment Alvarenga shot and killed K-9 Maya. Napierski emphasized that the camera is equipped to film both day and night, ensuring comprehensive coverage of the incident.
After Alvarenga fired his weapon, three officers returned fire, causing Alvarenga to fall to the ground. However, he continued to pose a threat by grabbing his gun, turning to face the officers, and raising his arm. In response, the officers fired additional shots, resulting in Alvarenga’s death several minutes later.
Thanks to the video footage, along with other recordings from that night, the Salt Lake District Attorney’s office was able to conclude that the officers’ actions were justified in this shooting death.
The DPS hopes that more law enforcement agencies across the state will take advantage of their helicopter services. Their chopper is available for deployment almost around the clock, ready to assist officers in need within minutes. Additionally, the helicopter’s capabilities include the ability to see inside vehicles and relay critical information to ground units, such as the suspect’s location, hiding spot, crashed vehicle, or the residence they enter.
Napierski also highlighted the helicopter’s involvement in search and rescue missions, locating runaways, supporting law enforcement operations, and extracting lost or injured individuals. He emphasized the aerial perspective’s advantages in finding people who are difficult to locate on the ground.
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