In Greenville County, South Carolina, a suspect’s attempt to evade arrest by hiding in a dishwasher under a porch was thwarted by a police K9. The incident occurred in April when deputies were trying to take Kevin Leroy Scott White, 47, into custody, according to Capt. Tim Brown of the Greenville County Sheriff’s Office.
Body camera footage released shows the moment the police service dog (PSD) engaged White, who can be heard screaming. Brown explained that the K9 pulled White from his hiding place and initially latched onto his side when the officer handling the dog momentarily lost his footing. Subsequently, the PSD re-engaged the suspect, this time on top of his head.
The footage reveals the K9 handler repeatedly commanding the PSD to release White, who continued to scream while on the ground. Earlier in the video, the K9 handler can be heard warning other deputies that the suspect was “getting dog bit,” and providing notice to White, stating, “Kevin Leroy White you’re under arrest. Come out. You’re gonna get bit by a police dog.” Despite the warning, White refused to surrender.
An investigation is underway by the sheriff’s department and the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division to determine whether excessive force was used during the apprehension, according to spokesman Lt. Ryan Flood. This is standard procedure when force is used during an arrest.
White was treated at a hospital for injuries sustained from the dog bite. The footage includes graphic photographs of the gashes to White’s side and head after receiving medical attention. Authorities also discovered that White was wanted in Florida on a probation violation. Deputies found 1.8 grams of crystal meth in his pocket when he was taken into custody.
White was charged with possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, resisting arrest, failure to stop, and other charges. However, Florida declined to extradite him on the warrant. This means he will face charges in South Carolina before any potential extradition to Florida for the probation violation.