On the evening of April 17, 2024, at approximately 5 p.m., Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Deputy Stephan E. Williams and his loyal K9 partner, Kjeld, affectionately known as “Kid,” along with additional Special Enforcement Bureau (SEB) Personnel, responded swiftly to assist Compton Station deputies in locating an armed suspect who had threatened a citizen with a handgun.
Numerous announcements were made to alert the area of the K9 unit’s involvement to encourage a peaceful surrender.
At around 6:19 p.m., while searching a commercial yard on the 100 block of Spruce Street in Compton, K9 “Kid” detected the suspect concealed under a tarp. The suspect fired a shot, hitting K9 “Kid” on his protective vest and right shoulder. Deputy Williams immediately recalled “Kid” and assessed his injuries.
The suspect complied with the commands and was taken into custody without further incident and was subsequently identified as the individual wanted for the initial call for service.
K9 “Kid” was rushed to VCA Lakewood Animal Hospital in Cerritos, where he was treated and received exceptional medical care. He received six stitches for a two-inch laceration on his right shoulder and was released later that evening in fair condition. We sincerely thank VCA Lakewood Animal Hospital for their outstanding care.
We extend special thanks to the K9s of Valor Foundation for their generous donation of the protective vest worn by K9 “Kid.” Their support and contributions of life-saving equipment significantly enhance the safety of law enforcement K9s nationwide.
K9 “Kid,” a 4-year-old Belgian Malinois, has been serving with our K9 Services Detail since January 2023, symbolizing the deep bond and trust between our handlers and their K9 partners.
Deputy Williams, a dedicated K9 handler, with 12 years of service as a deputy and 7 years of prior law enforcement experience.
The Special Enforcement Bureau K9 Services Detail is pivotal in supporting our patrol and SEB operations. It uses highly trained deputy service dogs to locate and apprehend potentially violent suspects.
The use of K9 units in law enforcement is invaluable. Our handlers undergo rigorous training to ensure the effective deployment of their K9 partners in diverse situations, enhancing community safety and security.
Reflecting on the incident, the potential consequences were great: without “Kid’s” intervention, the suspect might have escaped, posing an ongoing threat, leading to a potentially tragic outcome.
“Without our K9’s we wouldn’t be able to do our jobs.” -Deputy Stephan Williams
The bravery and professionalism displayed by the Special Enforcement Bureau personnel during this rapidly evolving situation, characterized by split-second decision-making, is commendable. Their restraint and judgment, choosing not to resort to lethal force in adversity, are worthy of high praise.
We are exceptionally proud of the heroic actions of our K9, “Kid,” whose efforts were pivotal in preserving lives on both sides. Even amidst danger, their dedication to preserving life epitomizes our commitment to public safety and the highest law enforcement standards.
In an era where the use of force is often controversial their actions exemplify the values of compassion, integrity, and unwavering commitment to serving and protecting the communities we serve.
They exhibited amazing restraint and judgment, choosing not to resort to lethal force despite the immense challenge they face.” -Sheriff Robert Luna
The bravery and sacrifice of K9 “Kid” underscore the risks they willingly undertake to safeguard others. His actions, coupled with the decisions made by the team, represent the epitome of professionalism and dedication within law enforcement.
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