The tragic death of K-9 Coba serves as a stark reminder of the dangers law enforcement officers and their K-9 partners face in the line of duty. Earlier this year, officers attempting to serve a warrant in Newberry County called in the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) K-9 team due to the suspect’s history of violent resistance. When K-9 Coba entered the residence to assist, he was shot and killed by the suspect. Fortunately, the officers on the scene were not harmed, but this incident underscores the deadly risks they face every day.
While the suspect, James R. Peterson, has been sentenced to 33 years in prison for multiple crimes—including burglary, attempted murder, and cruelty to a police dog—the maximum penalty for harming a law enforcement K-9 under current state law is only five years. This is simply not enough.
Why We Must Increase Penalties for Harming K-9 Officers
K-9 officers are more than just working dogs; they are partners in law enforcement. They detect narcotics, locate missing persons, and, as seen in this case, assist in apprehending dangerous criminals. When a K-9 is attacked, it is an attack on law enforcement itself.
Currently, South Carolina law imposes a maximum five-year sentence for harming or killing a police K-9. However, these animals willingly put themselves in harm’s way to protect officers and the public. A stronger deterrent is necessary to ensure those who target these highly trained officers face severe consequences.
Legislative Efforts to Protect K-9 Officers
Recognizing the need for stronger protections, Representative Neal A. Collins introduced H 3034, and Senator Brian Adams introduced S 427—two critical pieces of legislation aimed at increasing penalties for harming law enforcement K-9s. These bills send a clear message: targeting a police K-9 will carry serious consequences.
We extend our gratitude to Representative Collins and Senator Adams for their leadership on this issue. Their commitment to law enforcement safety is commendable, and now it is time for South Carolinians to take action.
How You Can Help
The safety of our officers—and their K-9 partners—depends on strong laws that hold criminals accountable. We urge South Carolinians to contact their legislators and express support for H 3034 and S 427. Strengthening penalties for harming law enforcement K-9s will help deter violence and ensure justice for these brave animals who risk everything to protect us.
Take action today. Call or email your local representatives and let them know you support these bills. Our law enforcement officers and their K-9 partners deserve nothing less.
K-9 Coba made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. Let us honor his memory by ensuring that those who harm law enforcement K-9s face penalties that reflect the gravity of their crime.
