A K-9 in Gainesville, Florida, played a crucial role in taking down a fleeing suspect this week, according to the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office. Body camera footage shows Trever Strawder trying to escape deputies as the K-9 gave chase into a nearby wooded area. Shortly after, Strawder was on the ground, visibly distressed. Detective Clayton Litzkow had initially stopped Strawder, who was driving a gray Nissan Altima, for a routine traffic violation.
Before the traffic stop, law enforcement was alerted to Strawder’s presence in Alachua County. Detectives suspected he was armed due to his criminal history outside the county. After initially complying, Strawder sped off, hitting another vehicle in the process. The video shows a police vehicle attempting a tactical maneuver to stop him; however, his car collided with the police vehicle and became disabled. He then exited his vehicle and ran into the woods.
As deputies followed, a police K-9 was deployed. The footage captures the moment the K-9 caught up to Strawder, leading to his cries for help. “Let go of the dog!” shouted one deputy while drawing his firearm. Strawder responded, “I’m trying to!” as deputies moved to restrain him. The K-9 continued to search Strawder’s pockets until a deputy intervened to pull the dog away.
From Strawder’s possession, deputies recovered a bag containing “items of significant value” related to ongoing criminal investigations. At the time of his arrest, Strawder had three outstanding warrants. He now faces multiple charges, including Fleeing and Eluding, Resisting Without Violence, and Driving While License Suspended or Revoked. Notably, he did not possess a valid driver’s license, and his past includes convictions for Robbery with a Firearm and Battery on Law Enforcement.
The Alachua County Sheriff’s Office released a statement emphasizing the dangers faced by deputies daily. “This incident highlights the dangers our deputies face daily in protecting our community,” the office remarked. It commended the quick thinking, courage, and teamwork displayed by the deputies in safely apprehending a potentially dangerous individual.
This incident underscores the critical role that K-9 units play in law enforcement. They are more than just tools; they are active participants in ensuring public safety. As the situation unfolded, both the K-9 and the deputies demonstrated professionalism and courage, ultimately bringing the incident to a safe conclusion for the community.
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