SUTHERLIN, Ore. – Two Sutherlin police officers sustained minor injuries after a suspect’s dog bit them while they were attempting to arrest the individual, who was reportedly combative during the encounter, according to the Sutherlin Police Department.
The incident occurred shortly after 6 p.m. on February 12, when officers responded to a call regarding illegal camping in the area of Southside Road and Forest Heights. Upon contacting 51-year-old Jason Ray Nightingale, officers discovered he had outstanding warrants. Authorities say that Nightingale immediately became physically combative with law enforcement as they tried to arrest him.
During the struggle, Nightingale allegedly attempted to take an officer’s stun gun, and at the same time, his dog began biting the officers. In response, an officer fired two shots at the dog, which fled the scene unharmed. The dog was not located after the incident, police said.
Despite the dog’s attack and Nightingale’s resistance, officers were eventually able to subdue him. He was arrested and transported to the Douglas County Jail, where he faces charges including assaulting public safety officers, unlawful use of a weapon, escape, harassment, and the outstanding warrants.
The two officers who were bitten by the dog were treated for their injuries at Mercy Medical Center and were released shortly after. The condition of the officers has been described as stable, with their injuries being non-life-threatening.
Nightingale remains in custody, and jail records indicate he has been held since January 13, 2025. Authorities continue to investigate the incident, and the search for the dog remains ongoing.
