A San Diego sheriff's K-9 was stabbed multiple times in the face while assisting Escondido police with a burglary early Saturday morning. The incident occurred around 12:30 a.m. when the Sheriff's K-9 Unit responded to a business burglary.
Authorities reported that a suspect, identified as 35-year-old Eric Rodriguez, was throwing objects and wielding a large stick at responding officers. Despite warnings, Rodriguez refused to comply with commands. Officers then deployed Nike, a six-year-old Belgian Malinois K-9, to apprehend Rodriguez. During the apprehension attempt, Rodriguez allegedly stabbed Nike several times in the face.
The K-9 sustained five facial lacerations and two puncture wounds, requiring approximately 10 stitches. Nike was immediately transported by his handler to the Veterinary Specialty Hospital of North County in San Marcos for emergency treatment. He was released from veterinary care early Sunday morning and is now recovering at home with his handler.
Following the attack on the K-9, deputies arrested Rodriguez. He was booked into the Vista Detention Facility and faces charges including injuring a working dog, resisting arrest, second-degree burglary, and property vandalism, according to the San Diego County Sheriff's Office.
The Sheriff's Office stated that Nike has been a K-9 for nearly two years and expressed hope for his full recovery.