JONESBORO, Ark. – In a shocking case of man’s best friend turning on his handler, a Jonesboro police officer was attacked and bitten multiple times by his own K-9 partner while searching for evidence after a suspect fled a traffic stop, according to authorities and bodycam footage released by the department.
Officer Zach Hobbs and his K-9 partner, Rocky, were involved in the incident on Sunday, June 7, in a Jonesboro neighborhood. The situation began during a routine traffic stop when the suspect took off on foot, prompting a pursuit and a subsequent search for evidence. Rocky, a trained police dog, scaled a chain-link fence during the operation.
As Officer Hobbs attempted to lift the dog back over the fence to his side, Rocky yelped, possibly after being scraped, and immediately turned aggressive in what police described as a "pain-induced defensive attack." The dog bit Hobbs multiple times on both arms and his upper right thigh, leaving severe puncture wounds.
Bodycam video captured the chaotic moment, with Hobbs heard reacting in pain as the dog latched on amid dense foliage and wooded terrain. An Arkansas State Police trooper who was on scene stepped in to help restrain the K-9 and assist the injured officer.
Hobbs was transported to a local hospital for treatment of his injuries. In a positive update, the Jonesboro Police Department reported that Officer Hobbs and Rocky were successfully reunited on Monday, with the dog appearing happy to see his handler once again.
The suspect in the original incident was arrested and faces multiple charges, including fleeing, possession of a controlled substance, driving with a suspended license, and more.
Police K-9 units are vital tools in law enforcement, often putting themselves in harm's way to protect officers and apprehend suspects. Incidents like this highlight the unpredictable risks that come with handling powerful working dogs, even in routine operations. The Jonesboro Police Department has not indicated any disciplinary action against the animal, emphasizing that the incident was accidental and triggered by the dog's apparent pain.
