Riesa: Investigation into Police Dog Use at AfD Protest Closed

Prosecutors in Dresden have concluded their investigation into a controversial police dog deployment during protests against the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party congress in Riesa. The case against the 36-year-old police dog handler, who faced allegations of assault and violating animal welfare laws, has been dismissed.

The incident occurred on January 11, 2025, during protests against the AfD's federal congress, where approximately 10,000 people gathered. The handler was accused of directing his service dog to push back a demonstrator. Video footage of the event sparked public outrage on social media, leading to multiple complaints filed with the police.

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The officer's actions were justified. The demonstrator had repeatedly and deliberately ignored lawful police instructions.

Following a review by an expert, the prosecution determined that the officer's actions were justified. According to the statement, the demonstrator had repeatedly and deliberately ignored lawful police instructions. The use of the police dog was intended to prevent the breach of a security line, as the demonstrator's behavior was seen as potentially inciting others and undermining the deterrent effect of the police presence.

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The officer had no reasonable alternatives in this situation.

Investigators concluded that the officer had no reasonable alternative course of action in the high-pressure situation. Furthermore, no violation of animal welfare laws was found, as the officer's actions were deemed necessary for enforcing a lawful police measure rather than being driven by cruelty. The report noted that the officer held the dog by its harness, distributing pressure when lifting the animal, a practice described as established procedure. The strain on the dog was considered secondary to the legitimate police interest in preventing danger.

The protests against the AfD congress saw clashes with police, drawing criticism for the force's conduct. Another incident involving a police officer and a Left Party state parliament member also led to an investigation that was subsequently closed.

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The officer acted not out of cruelty, but to enforce a lawful police measure.