Deputy Fined and will Serve Probation for Striking K-9

Incident at Casino Brings Probation for Ramsey Co. Deputy

Deputy Brett Berry was sentenced to a year of probation and over $1,200 in fines and restitution fees and will not face any jail time unless he violates his probation.

Berry was greeted by animal rights activists just minutes after his sentencing. “The man assaulted an officer,” said one activist.

“Disappointed at the outcome but that being said …glad that there’s some type of justice for K9 Officer Boone and that this is done,” said Mary Nelson, an animal rights activist at the sentencing.

Berry was caught on surveillance video outside of Black Bear Casino and Resort picking up his canine officer, Boone, and throwing him to the ground. When the dog ran away, Berry caught him and struck the dog repeatedly.

Berry didn’t say much in court, but did say he made a mistake and was sorry.

“Justice is served. It was a misdemeanor that was a raw nerve for the community which was hugely atypical and we had a difficult…literally running a gauntlet coming through people who were very angry every time we came up here. He received a sentence commensurate with the crime he committed,” said Berry defense attorney Kevin Short.

For some of those gathered in the courtroom, they say they’re disappointed and it’s not enough.

“The problem was the law and not knowing what to do and not being able to do anything. So we need to get our laws changed. As a public, we need to go to our legislatures and demand that change. Otherwise this just happens again,” said Nelson.

Afterwards things got a little heated betwen activists and Berry’s defense. “No one likes lawyers and that’s ok,” said Short to an activist.

Both the prosecution and the defense said they have never seen so much reaction to a case either of them have worked.

“For us I don’t think it’s over. We will always remember Boone and he will be the driving force for a lot of changes,” said Nelson.

Berry was also ordered to not have any pets or alcohol during his probation. Ramsey County will have the final say as to whether the deputy keeps his job.

Boone, the K-9 officer, was examined after the incident by a veterinarian and appeared to have no injuries.