Ramsey Co. Deputy Caught Abusing K-9 On Camera Is Back At Work

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) - A Ramsey County sheriff's deputy caught on surveillance cameras abusing his K-9 partner is now back on the job.

Brett Arthur Berry, 48, had been on administrative leave since late June, when he was charged in Carlton County for animal cruelty against his dog Boone.

On August 14, he started work again in the Ramsey County Sheriff's Office detention division.

The sheriff's office is still deciding what to do with Boone. He could be given to another handler or retired.

On June 14, the Carlton County Sheriff's Office said Berry was at Black Bear Casino for a canine training and certification event.

Deputies were called to the casino just before 3 a.m. on June 15 on a report of animal cruelty caught on camera involving Berry, who had been asked to leave the casino's Cobalt Lounge earlier in the night by deputies due to staff complaints.

Berry was observed on camera leaving the lounge, going back to his hotel room and then leaving with his K-9 partner five minutes later. He was then observed carrying the dog to his car while being visibly upset.

Berry was next seen on camera picking up the dog by the collar and throwing it to the ground. The K-9 then ran back to the casino and got trapped between entryway doors. Berry was seen catching up to his partner, and then repeatedly hitting the K-9.

The charges against Berry are still ongoing.

He is an 18-year veteran of the department and has received letters of recognition in the past. One complaint has been filed against Berry in his career, involving "poor public relations" during a traffic stop.