NORTH CHARLESTON, S.C. — Newly released dashcam footage shows the moment a service dog ran into the road and was struck by a vehicle during a police encounter on Ashley Phosphate Road earlier this month.
Mistaken Identity Leads to Stop
According to an incident report, a man contacted North Charleston Police on July 8 to report that his son had an active bench warrant. He gave officers a detailed description of his son, adding that he often walked with his service dog and might give fake names to avoid arrest.
Later, officers spotted a man, later identified as Angelo Whitewolf, who matched the description. Police spokesman Harve Jacobs said officers attempted to stop and arrest him.
Service Dog Breaks Free
While officers were trying to handcuff Whitewolf, one officer took hold of the dog’s leash. The service dog became frightened, broke free, and ran into the road, where it was hit by a passing car.
An officer rushed the injured animal to an emergency veterinary clinic.
Whitewolf Speaks Out
Whitewolf, who has lived with PTSD and other mental health challenges since a traumatic brain injury over a decade ago, said the incident should never have happened.
“You guys still have not properly ID’ed me. I’m like, ‘I need you guys to ID me so I can get to my dog because you guys more than likely may have killed my dog. This is uncalled for,’” Whitewolf said.
His mother, Deanna Hinton, said she’s worried about her son’s mental health after the incident. “I’m watching him backslide five years, if not more. As a mom, it’s hard to watch.”
Police Issue Apology
Police say once they realized Whitewolf was not the wanted man, they took him to the veterinary clinic to be with his dog and issued a lengthy public apology.
In their statement, the North Charleston Police Department said they were “truly heartbroken” over the accident and emphasized their commitment to supporting the family. The department also offered to cover all veterinary bills and appointments.
Family Considering Legal Action
Despite the department’s offer to pay for the dog’s care, Whitewolf’s family is seeking legal help in connection with the incident.
