K-9’s leg amputated after being shot by suspect wanted for child sex crimes, sheriff says

POLK COUNTY, Fla. (Gray News) - A Florida sheriff says a police dog remains hospitalized after suffering critical injuries while saving others in a shootout.

According to Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd, K-9 Ace was shot in the leg when deputies were trying to take 27-year-old Angel Bowers into custody.

Judd held a news conference on Thursday, stating that the situation started on Monday when Bowers failed to show for a court date in a child sex crimes case.

Bowers was said to be facing charges for unlawful sex with a minor, with a warrant issued for his arrest following that missed court appearance.

Judd said deputies responded to an area property after a bail bondsman informed them of Bowers’ possible whereabouts. However, there was no answer at the door when authorities arrived.

Deputies and the bondsman then tracked Bowers’ location to a wooded area where he was reportedly in a tent. Authorities tried to make contact, and that’s when shots were fired.

Bowers was found dead in the tent with a gun in his hand, Judd said. Three deputies at the scene were not injured thanks to K-9 Ace’s actions. But the animal ended up being critically wounded in the shooting, including being shot in one of his legs.

Polk County authorities said K-9 Ace received advanced treatment at the Veterinary Medical Center at Lakewood Ranch. Ace’s surgery went well. However, his front left leg was too damaged, and it had to be amputated.

The sheriff’s office said Ace is continuing to receive treatment with his partner remaining by his side.