Wanted suspect who briefly escaped after grappling with K-9 is arrested
Booking Photo: Chico Police Department
CHICO — A wanted suspect who initially escaped police custody after tussling with a K-9 has been arrested.
In the early morning hours of Sunday, July 19, an officer spotted 38-year-old Jared Kelly in the area of 19th Street and Normal Avenue. Knowing Kelly was wanted for arrest, the officer attempted to make contact.
It did not go well.
Police say Kelly immediately became combative, necessitating the deployment of K-9 officer Pax. Kelly and Pax fought, with Kelly striking Pax multiple times before ultimately escaping to a nearby open area with a pair of handcuffs still dangling from his wrist.
Numerous officers searched the area to no avail.
That afternoon, however, a woman called dispatch to report that Kelly was in her house.
Police units responded right away and indeed there he was, suffering from exhaustion and minor puncture wounds from his fight with Pax. This time, officers were able to take him into custody without incident.
Following medical clearance, Kelly was booked on suspicion of resisting arrest by violence, battery on a police K-9, battery on a peace officer, and violating a restraining order.
K-9 officer Pax was not injured, nor were any police officers.
