"Rocco's Law" Passes House, Headed To State Senate
PITTSBURGH (KDKA) – "Rocco's Law" is closer to becoming reality.
The bill to protect police dogs was approved by House lawmakers in Harrisburg Tuesday.
It's now on its way to the Senate.
The bill would strengthen felony charges for anyone who harms a police K-9.
It's named for the Pittsburgh Police dog killed in the line of duty earlier this year.
Rocco died after he was stabbed by John Rush, a convicted sex offender wanted for a violent home invasion.
Police were chasing Rush in Lawrenceville and ultimately got into a confrontation with him in the basement of a house in which he was hiding. Rocco's handler was injured and Rocco received a stab wound through six inches of muscle and wasn't able to survive his wounds.
A funeral was held for him at Soldiers and Sailors Hall last month.
RELATED LINKS
Hundreds Show Up To Mourn K-9 Officer Rocco At Funeral
Rocco's Law Introduced To Increase Penalties For Killing A K-9
3 Officers Injured, K-9 Stabbed During Lawrenceville Arrest
