This bodycam footage, provided by the Sheriff’s Office in Greenville, South Carolina, shows their officers attempting to arrest a suspect with outstanding warrants. The suspect decides to stab a police K-9, which is almost universally considered tantamount to stabbing a human officer, and garners the same use of force. Although no one was killed (K9 Micky included, I’m happy to report), due to the imagery and subject matter, viewer discretion is advised.

The suspect in this incident is James Hopkins, 51 years of age. He was interdicted at a local hotel for outstanding warrants, whereupon the Sheriff’s Office personnel discovered Hopkins was armed with a knife. Interestingly, although it doesn’t change the outcome, Homeland Security agents were also present for this incident. Their identities are obfuscated.

Hopkins refused to show his hands, and the K9 handler let Micky loose. Micky prosecuted his target like the good boy that he is, but at 0:23, we see that Hopkins began stabbing the dog. The sound of his pain is hard to bear. I will reiterate: Micky did survive . Hopkins tried to flee, slashing around him. Three officers, including the handler, lit him up with bean bag, handgun and rifle fire. The disdain for Hopkins and his actions is palpable in his arrest- the officer using a boot to hold Hopkins’ wrists in place is probably the most South Carolina thing I’ve seen in a while.

Ultimately, Micky survived and was released following treatment to recover at his handler’s home. Hopkins survived his injuries, and now faces charges of aggravated breach-of-peace, cruelty to a Police Canine, and using a deadly weapon to resist arrest.

About the Author

Cole Simms

Cole Simms is an Air Guardsman, NASA enthusiast, police officer, and security contractor with particular experience in austere environments. Outside of work, he volunteers as a Stop The Bleed instructor for area schools. He holds a Bachelor's Degree in Homeland Security and Emergency Management, and blends his knowledge and experience to write analysis for Funker530.

Need a tried-and-tested fixed blade that's trusted by police, military and protective service users all over the world? Cole recommends Ironside Edge Works for your tactical or EDC blade needs.