Lee County, FL – A fugitive wanted in Lee County was arrested Wednesday after allegedly striking a sheriff’s K9 multiple times during his capture, according to the Lee County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputies said the suspect, Austin Staiano, was being sought by the Fugitive Warrants Unit for violating pretrial release on charges that included possession of a firearm, resisting an officer, and drug possession.
According to investigators, detectives located Staiano in the Suncoast Estates area, but he fled upon seeing deputies. K9 Handler Jacob Sahagian and his partner K9 Vader tracked Staiano and found him hiding under a trailer home.
During the arrest, Staiano allegedly struck K9 Vader several times in the head and snout. Authorities confirmed that the K9 was not injured.
Staiano was taken into custody and charged with animal cruelty for striking a police dog, resisting an officer, and violating pretrial release conditions, the sheriff’s office stated.
Officials said K9 Vader was cleared of any injuries following the incident and has since returned to duty.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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