ST. PAUL - Three suspects in a manhunt that led to the stabbing of a police dog in Maplewood, Minn., were released from jail as authorities continue to investigate the case.
Meanwhile, the Roseville police dog, named Major, is reportedly doing "great," according to a website created by the Roseville Police Department to track his progress.
Major was stabbed four times in the neck and the head during a chase for a car theft suspect Friday at a truck lot near Minnesota 36. The dog suffered a collapsed lung and blunt trauma to his vertebrae. He might lose the use of his back legs.
The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension is analyzing physical evidence found at the scene, Maplewood Police Deputy Chief Dave Kvam reported Monday.
It could be weeks before preliminary results from lab examinations are complete. Authorities also are waiting for Major's condition to stabilize before pursuing possible criminal charges against the suspects, which could become more severe if the dog dies.
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During the chase, another K-9 unit later found a suspect, Roel Perez, 21, of Maplewood hiding under a pile of debris. He could face a gross misdemeanor charge for harming a public safety dog, police said. If Major dies, Perez could be charged with a felony.
The other car theft suspects arrested were Ryan Dorner, 21, of Mahtomedi and James McBain, 20, of Maplewood. Police said they had stolen tools and construction equipment. All three were released without being charged Monday.
According to Roseville police, Major is "eating well, very alert and happy" while undergoing care at the University of Minnesota Veterinary Medical Center in St. Paul. He started rehabilitation therapy to work on regaining the movement of his hind legs.
To track his daily progress online, go to mn-roseville. civicplus.com. Donations for his care and cards can be mailed to the K-9 Unit at the Roseville Police Department, 2660 Civic Center Drive, Roseville, MN 55113.
