Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin, a Republican, has pledged to ensure that a group of 'barbaric' MS-13 members are held accountable for the killing of a K-9 who was protecting a correctional officer during a sudden prison attack in Virginia.
Four inmates at Sussex I State Prison were involved in the attack, which tragically resulted in the death of the K-9 as it bravely shielded Corrections Officer Kharmishia Phillip Fields. Three of the inmates have confirmed ties to the notorious MS-13 gang.
The Virginia governor expressed his condolences, stating, 'God bless Rivan, a heroic K-9 who was killed in the line of duty in Virginia. These barbaric members of MS-13 will be held accountable.'
According to the Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC), the dog was fatally wounded after being repeatedly stabbed and kicked by the inmates, all of whom were reportedly illegal immigrants at the time of their arrest.
VADOC posted a tribute to the fallen K-9, stating, 'The VADOC is mourning the line of duty death of Rivan, a K-9 killed by MS-13 gang members while heroically protecting its assigned Corrections Officer, staff, and inmates at Sussex I State Prison.'
VADOC Director Chad Dotson emphasized the significance of Rivan's sacrifice, noting that the K-9 lost its life while potentially saving the lives of two individuals - its assigned Officer and an inmate. Dotson affirmed, 'The VADOC will never forget Rivan’s sacrifice.'
The loss of Rivan serves as a poignant reminder of the dangers faced by law enforcement officers and their loyal K-9 partners in the line of duty. Governor Youngkin's commitment to seeking justice for the slain K-9 underscores the state's unwavering dedication to upholding the safety and security of its correctional facilities.
