Salinas K-9 injured during response to burglary

A Salinas K-9 officer was injured during a response to a burglary.

Officers responded to the call in the 400 block of Freemont Street on Monday evening.

The owner reported he had just closed his business and was walking to his vehicle when he observed the suspect, 24-year-old Roman Lopez Ambrocio approach and kick in the front glass door to enter the business.

Officers arrived and surrounded the business and saw Ambrocio still in the business. They ordered him to exit but he refused to comply the officer’s orders instead he retreated further into the business. A K-9 officer arrived and his partner Ari was deployed. After a brief struggle Ambrocio was taken into custody suffering moderate injuries to his armpit as a result of Avi’s bite.

During the incident Avi was injured and was rushed to the animal hospital where Ari underwent surgery. Ari is recovering and is expected to return to duty soon.

Ambrocio was arrested and transported to county jail and charged with burglary and resisting arrest.