The dopes that threw glass bottles at a horse are giving you all a bad name...

------------------------------

Los Angeles - On Monday, August 14, 2000, at approximately 8:45 p.m.,
personnel assigned to Metropolitan Division were involved in the dispersal of a
violent crowd at Olympic Boulevard and Figueroa Street. Officers from
Metropolitan Division’s Mounted Platoon were moving a crowd from the
demonstration area when they were attacked by a barrage of rocks, golf balls,
cement pieces, and other dangerous bottles. Police Officer III Kelli Shurian, Serial
No. 27344 was riding police equine "Dakota". Both were struck by numerous
objects including bottles. After striking Officer Shurian and Dakota, the bottles
shattered resulting in two lacerations to the right rear lo.htf Dakota.

Dakota sustained a 1 ½" laceration and a second 1" laceration/puncture wound.
The puncture wound bled profusely. Since the officers were under attack from
the violent crowd Officer Shurian and Dakota continued their assigned duty to
clear the crowd. At the conclusion of their mission, Dakota’s wounds were
examined and determined to be serious in nature. A pressure bandage was used
to stem any further bleeding. An examination of the injury this morning, August
15, 2000, indicated that sutures would not be necessary to close the wound.
Dakota has exhibited stiffness to the rear leg and is unable to be utilized by the
Department at this point. An examination by a veterinarian will be conducted if
further problems are observed.

The officers of the Mounted Platoon form a strong bond between themselves and
their horses. Rather than going home, Officer Shurian remained at the DNC
staging area throughout the night to ensure that Dakota was safe and to apply any
further care as necessary.

Police Officer Shurian and Dakota will be available for viewing and
photographs by the media, between the hours of 2:00 P.M. and 3:30 P.M.
at Parker Administration Building, 150 North Los Angeles Street, Los
Angeles.