Executive Summary
- Emma Hollingsworth accuses a US Marshal of kicking her dog, causing a broken rib.
- The incident occurred during the arrest of Jaquize Henderson in Memphis, TN.
- Video footage of the altercation circulated on social media, drawing public criticism.
- The US Marshals Service states the dog was aggressive toward a police K9.
- Officials described the use of force as a "last resort" to mitigate a dangerous situation.
A Memphis woman has accused federal agents of animal cruelty after a Deputy U.S. Marshal was recorded kicking her dog during an arrest operation, prompting the agency to defend the action as a necessary safety measure. The incident occurred while agents were executing a warrant at an apartment complex, resulting in injuries to the animal.
Emma Hollingsworth alleged that the encounter resulted in a broken rib for her miniature Schnauzer, Yoshi. In a video shared on social media, Hollingsworth acknowledged that the agents were present to execute an arrest warrant for her boyfriend, Jaquize Henderson. According to court records cited by Action News 5, Henderson was wanted in connection with a commercial burglary in North Mississippi.
Footage of the encounter appears to show the dog running loose near the officers outside the building. Hollingsworth stated to Action News 5 that she was unable to retrieve the animal because an agent was obstructing her doorway. The video subsequently shows a marshal kicking the small dog, launching it off the ground. Hollingsworth later reported that the dog required veterinary care and pain medication for the confirmed injury.
In a statement issued to media outlets, the U.S. Marshals Service disputed the characterization of the event as abuse. A spokesperson stated that the dog "tried repeatedly and aggressively to attack the working K9" present at the scene. The agency maintained that the kick was not committed with malice but was a "last resort, split-second action" designed to control the environment and prevent interference with official duties.
Operational Liability and Procedure
This incident highlights the volatile nature of executing federal arrest warrants in residential areas, particularly when uncontrolled domestic animals are introduced into the tactical environment. Law enforcement agencies typically operate under strict use-of-force continuums that extend to the neutralization of perceived threats to officers or K9 units. While the optics of the video have drawn public scrutiny, any internal review will likely focus on whether the deputy’s actions aligned with protocols regarding the protection of service animals and the mitigation of scene hazards. It is important to note that Jaquize Henderson, the subject of the warrant, is presumed innocent of the burglary charges until proven guilty in a court of law.
