The Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office is deeply saddened to announce the loss of Canine Brooks following an off-duty incident on the evening of March 17, 2025.
At approximately 9:30 p.m., Master Deputy Charles Perdomo was at his residence when he let Brooks out for a bathroom break within his fenced yard.
For unknown reasons, Brooks managed to jump the fence and ran into the wooded area behind the deputy's home.
Around 10 p.m., a neighbor residing on Amber Lane in Lithia discovered Brooks actively attacking his alpaca. Unaware that Brooks was an HCSO Canine, the neighbor attempted to deter the attack by firing a shotgun in hopes of scaring the dog away. After the initial shot did not stop the attack, the neighbor fired a second shot, fatally wounding Brooks.
The alpaca sustained a minor injury to its leg and is receiving appropriate care.
"We are heartbroken over the loss of K9 Brooks, a dedicated and courageous member of our HCSO family," said Sheriff Chad Chronister. "The unbreakable bond between a K9 and their partner is like no other, making this loss even more heartbreaking. Our thoughts are with Deputy Perdomo and all those affected."
HCSO is conducting a thorough review of the circumstances surrounding this unfortunate event.
For further inquiries, please contact the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office Public Affairs Office at (813) 247-8060