TOWN OF WAKE FOREST
Maverick was hit by an officer pursuing a suspect.
WAKE FOREST -- A town police officer in pursuit of a suspect ran over and severely injured a drug-sniffing police dog Thursday afternoon.
Maverick, a Belgian Malinois, has been part of Wake Forest's K-9unit for seven years. He had emergency surgery at N.C. State University's College of Veterinary Medicine and remains there in stable condition.
Police were chasing Marcus Antwan Richardson, who was wanted on charges of violating terms of his probation, failing to appear in court and resisting a public officer. He had not been caught late Friday.
Richardson, 21, will be held accountable for Maverick's injuries, police say. In addition to the previous charges, police say, Richardson will be charged with felony assault on a police animal and resisting a public officer.
"We're asking for the public's help on this one," town spokesman Bill Crabtree said. The police department is offering an unspecified reward for anyone who can lead officers to Richardson, Crabtree said.
Police say Richardson might be driving a light blue 1980 Pontiac.
The chase took place on Taylor Street, and police urge anyone with information to call 554-6150.
Staff writer Stephanie Soucheray
