An investigation has been launched after a viral social media post allegedly showed a Border Patrol agent mistreating a K9 at the Falfurrias Border Patrol checkpoint in Texas.
Newsweek has contacted Customs and Border Protection for further comment via email outside of normal office hours.
Why It Matters
The video, which was recorded by Jessica Pena on New Year’s Day, shows what appears to be a Border Patrol agent allegedly abusing a dog, raising serious concerns about the treatment of animals used in law enforcement.
While the U.S. Border Patrol has committed to a thorough investigation, this incident highlights issues of misconduct within the agency, as Newsweek has previously revealed at least 211 Border Patrol agents are currently under investigation for alleged wrongdoings.
This photo shows a US Border Patrol patch on a border agent’s uniform in McAllen, Texas, on January 15, 2019. An investigation has been launched after a viral social media post allegedly showed a Border Patrol agent mistreating a K9 at the Falfurrias Border Patrol checkpoint in Texas.
SUZANNE CORDEIRO/AFP via Getty Images
What To Know
The video was published on Wednesday and shows the alleged abuse at the Falfurrias Border Patrol checkpoint in Texas.
Jessica Pena, who was at the checkpoint just before 3 p.m. CST on New Year’s Day, witnessed a Border Patrol agent reportedly kneeing and kicking a K9 in an apparent disciplinary action, footage appears to show. The footage, shared to Pena’s Facebook page, has received over 441,000 views.
Pena captured part of the incident on video before exiting her vehicle to confront the agents.
The Border Patrol did not provide specifics about the incident or the current status of the Border Patrol agent shown in the video.
What People Are Saying
Gloria I. Chavez, U.S. Border Patrol Chief Patrol Agent in the Rio Grande Valley Sector, said in a statement shared on social media: “The U.S. Border Patrol takes every allegation seriously. Our K9s are extremely valuable to our border security mission. We love our dogs. They are very special law enforcement partners. Any mistreatment or abuse by their handlers will not be tolerated in any capacity.
“We very much appreciate the public for making us aware of the incident that took place at the Falfurrias Checkpoint. We have made proper notifications to conduct a full investigation into this event. Be assured that our K9 is safe.
“I appreciate all your love, concern, and support for our K9 partners. Be assured our K9s and their safety will always be a top priority.”
Jessica Pena, who recorded and shared the footage, said in a post on Facebook: “Does anyone recognize this Border Patrol agent? She dragged the dog took him to the side of the building and started kicking him.
“I tried getting off my car to maybe ask her to stop cause it was ugly. They yelled and told me to get back in my car. I asked them why she was doing that and the excuse I was given was that he was chocking.
“And then they told me K9s discipline dogs in their own ways. So is this proper discipline? The dog walking with his tail tucked in should tell you how he feels.
“I am in shock! Full of emotions and disbelief in what I just witnessed—videos were taken at 2:51 p.m. at the Falfurrias Check Point.
What Happens Next
It remains to be seen if the agent involved in this case will face disciplinary action or legal consequences for their actions.
Animal cruelty is a felony punishable by up to two years in jail and a $10,000 fine in the state of Texas, per House Bill 653 and Senate Bill 1724, collectively known as “Loco’s Law.”
CBP investigations remain ongoing.
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