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NewsTelemundo 52 — LocalJuly 2, 2026United States

Dog Owner Sues City of Los Angeles Over Fatal Police Shooting

Marie Marseille, a Canoga Park resident, has filed a federal lawsuit against the City of Los Angeles and unnamed police officers following the fatal shooting of her dog, Jameson, by LAPD officers. The lawsuit alleges that officers violated department policy on the use of force against animals during a welfare check that occurred during NBA championship celebrations.

lawsuitpolice_conductanimal_welfareLAPDcivil_rights
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Why It Matters

The lawsuit challenges the LAPD's application of its animal use-of-force policy and seeks unspecified damages, potentially influencing future department training and accountability standards regarding police interactions with pets.

Key Facts

  • Marie Marseille filed a federal lawsuit against the City of Los Angeles and unnamed officers for the death of her dog, Jameson.
  • The incident occurred on June 13 at an apartment on the 7500 block of Jordan Avenue in Canoga Park.
  • Officers were responding to a 911 call reporting a woman screaming, which turned out to be celebrations for the New York Knicks' NBA championship win.
  • The lawsuit alleges the LAPD violated its own policy regarding the use of force against animals.
  • The dog was a 48-kilogram Labradoodle mix.
  • Body camera footage shows officers asking the resident to secure the dog before the animal exited the apartment and was shot.
  • The lawsuit claims the dog did not growl, show teeth, or attempt to attack officers.
  • LAPD policy authorizes force against animals only when they pose an immediate threat of injury.
  • Mayor Karen Bass has publicly called for a re-evaluation of LAPD policies regarding pets and use of force.
  • Chief Jim McDonnell has committed to a thorough investigation of the shooting.

Who's Mentioned

organizationLAPD“Los Angeles Police Department, the subject of the lawsuit.”personJim McDonnell“LAPD Chief who promised an investigation.”personMarie Marseille“Owner of the dog Jameson and plaintiff in the lawsuit.”locationCanoga Park“Location of the incident.”personKaren Bass“Mayor of Los Angeles who called for a policy re-evaluation.”otherJameson“A two-year-old Labradoodle killed by LAPD officers.”locationJordan Avenue“Street where the incident occurred.”