LIVINGSTON, LA – After a review of a graphic arrest involving a K-9, the Livingston Parish Sheriff’s Office has announced sweeping reforms, namely, that police dogs will now be limited to consuming no more than one suspect arm per week.
Sheriff Jason Ard called the change “a step toward balance,” noting that while deputies “still value the enthusiastic participation of our four-legged officers,” there must be limits on how many body parts can double as chew toys.
Under the new policy, K-9s will be issued weekly punch cards to track their bites, with rollover arms no longer permitted. Deputies have also been instructed to discourage dogs from “snacking” during transport, as such activity reportedly complicates booking procedures.
Civil rights advocates called the new rules “a start,” but expressed concerns that the policy doesn’t address legs, torsos, or other areas “ripe for canine exploration.”
Meanwhile, sources confirm the department’s dogs are considering unionizing, demanding “unlimited paws-off buffet privileges” as part of contract negotiations.
