DPS: K-9 officers’ deaths not a cover up

A small private burial ceremony was held at the Department of Public Safety headquarters in Susupe last Friday for two K-9 officers who had died after being left in a heated car.

With speculation surrounding the deaths of the police dogs, Saipan Tribune reached out to DPS for clarity on the matter.

“Two of our K-9s passed away on Sept. 8,” said assistant chief of police and acting public information officer Simon T. Manacop. “The dogs were inside a patrol car when the aircon malfunctioned and started blowing hot air.”

He added that the K-9 handlers that day had originally left the dogs in the car with the A/C on as they went to secure drug evidence at DPS headquarters.

“They returned to the vehicle 30 minutes later and discovered the dogs passed out.”

“One passed that same morning,” said Manacop. “Officers attempted to resuscitate but were unsuccessful. The other one was rushed to a veterinarian but also passed in the evening.”

When asked if it was normal for DPS personnel to leave K-9 officers unattended in the car, Manacop stated. “It is standard procedure that the dogs be left in the vehicle with air-con on while they perform other duties, such as while they were securing evidence,” he added.

Pertaining to the matter not being made public, or known to the media, Manacop replied that it had been requested by DPS Commissioner Anthony Macaranas to keep the ceremony private.

When addressing the rumors that the situation had been a cover up, Manacop said that it had been “no cover up.” He said that the incident is currently being investigated by DPS’ Professional Responsibilities Office.

“There is an active investigation being conducted… in reference to the death of the two K-9s. If an officer is found to have violated any procedures that caused the death, they would face disciplinary actions.”

He added, “Now, procedures could be administrative, but the investigation could also take into account criminal violations. If there are criminal statutes that were violated, officers may also face criminal actions.”