Police Sergeant Arrested for Kicking K-9 Partner to Death

Miami-Dade Police Sgt. Allen Cockfield was arrested Wednesday for kicking his K-9 partner Duke to death nearly a year ago. Cockfield is charged with animal cruelty and killing a police dog, a third-degree felony under Florida law.

Cockfield was a 20-year veteran with a personal file filled with letters of commendations and no disciplinary actions. He was also reported to be one of the best dog handlers in the department. Like Hillsborough County, Florida, Deputy Raymond Choy, arrested earlier this month for forcing a detained citizen to perform oral sex, he appears to be a good cop that suddenly did something incredibly outrageous – or he’s a bad cop that finally got caught.

Cockfield was released on a $6,000 bond Wednesday evening and has been relieved of duty without pay.

Duke was Cockfield’s fourth dog with the department. Duke was killed during an obedience control exercise where at least 6 fellow officers reported observing Cockfield kick Duke between 3-6 times. Cockfield denies kicking his partner despite the overwhelming number of witnesses.