K-9 neglect: Ex-officer’s shepherd seized

A former Watsonville police dog has been seized by Monterey County’s SPCA after he was found emaciated, dehydrated and neglected.

Ingo was taken from the home of former Watsonville police officer Francisco Ibarra.

Sgt. Stacy Sanders of the SPCA told the Santa Cruz Sentinel that an anonymous tip led them to Ibarra’s home in Salinas.

There, they found Ingo, who weighed just 55 pounds, about 25 pounds less than he should. His ribs and hipbones were showing, and there was no food in the back yard, the SPCA said.

Ingo has gained 15 pounds since SPCA officers seized him on Feb. 17.

“He is slowly recovering and gaining weight on a specialized diet on a prescribed feeding schedule,” said Beth Brookhouser of the SPCA.

The Monterey County district attorney’s office said Ibarra has been charged with two misdemeanor counts of failing to take care of an animal. He is scheduled to appear in court on April 18. The penalty, if he’s convicted, is six months in jail and a $1,000 fine.

The SPCA said that, while it hasn’t determined if the dog is adoptable, he won’t be euthanized.

Ibarra, who was fired from the force in 2010, is seeking to be reinstated by the Watsonville Police Department.

(Photo: SPCA of Monterey County)

Posted by jwoestendiek March 26th, 2012 under Muttsblog.
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Comments

Comment from KateH
Time March 26, 2012 at 6:29 pm

I certainly hope the dept. doesn’t rehire this jerk. I can’t imagine he treats people well, either.

Comment from Starla
Time March 27, 2012 at 11:00 am

Wow! This dog was his PARTNER! Police dogs are considered fellow officers & should be treated as such. I hope he faces severe charges & is never allowed to handle another dog or be rehired w/ the police dept. This man is not honorable.

Comment from taron
Time July 29, 2012 at 9:39 am

was this guy a dog handler if so he should be more responsible as it reflects on the whole police dept

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