Woman bitten by police K-9 during search for missing child

PORT ORANGE, Fla. —
A Port Orange police K-9 bit a woman behind shrubbery during a search for a missing child, investigators said.
Police said they responded to a home on Nasser Lane regarding a missing 4-year-old child. As officers searched the house and area, they noticed the rear of the home unsecured.
In close proximity to the house is a retention pond.
K-9 Officer Justin White and his K-9, Rex, tracked to the shore of the pond. Police said Rex kept entering the water. Rex tracked in and out of the water for approximately 50 feet along the shore. In doing so, the Rex’s legs and lead became entangled in loose palm fronds and debris in the water. The more Rex tried to free himself, the more his lead tightened up around his collar, pulling him farther into the water. White said he attempted to lift Rex up and untangle him.
At some point, Rex was able to get free and ran. As White gave commands to stop, the dog was approaching some shrubbery. Police said a woman appeared from behind the shrubbery and Rex reacted, biting her on the thigh. As she attempted to push the Rex off, the K-9 bit her on her right hip.
White was able to grab Rex by his collar, police said.
The woman, whose name was not released, was transported to the hospital for treatment and was later released.
The child was located unharmed inside his home, where he was found tucked under the dining room table.
via Woman bitten by police K-9 during search for missing child