Viral video alleges K-9 abuse at Border Patrol checkpoint

CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — On Friday, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) shared a press release with 3NEWS sharing requests it submitted to U.S. Customs and Border Protection officials on Jan. 1. 

According to the release, PETA sent a letter to Border Protection officials requesting that the K-9 seen being kneed multiple times by its handler in a recent viral video be released from that agent’s custody and that the officer be reassigned to duties that do not involve animals.  

The animal rights organization requested that investigation into the incident be conducted by a third party like the Brooks County Sheriff’s Office.

Lastly, PETA recommended that the agency complete a thorough review of policies and training for handlers, including behavior correction techniques approved by veterinarians.

“If a …