***MEDIA ADVISORY*** Congressman Bean, K9s United to Hold Press Conference Calling for Tougher Penalties for Individuals Who Harm Law Enforcement Animals

July 21, 2025 Press Release WASHINGTON —On Tuesday, July 22nd, U.S. Congressman Aaron Bean will join K9s United for a press conference at the House Triangle to unveil the Leo K9 Protection Act, a bill aimed at strengthening penalties for individuals who use a deadly weapon to harm a federal police animal. This bill also expands the federal statute to apply to any state, county, or local police animal assisting a federal agency, provides a good-faith exception for anyone providing emergency veterinary care to an injured police animal, and directs the USDOT to issue regulations ensuring that emergency medical services can transport an injured police K9, if the provider chooses to do so. This announcement comes as attacks on ICE agents have surged 830%, underscoring the urgent need to extend protections to their canine and equine partners, who face the same threats in the line of duty. Details for the press conference can be found immediately below: WHO: Congressman Aaron Bean, President and Founder of K9s United Debbie Johnson, Sergeant Justin Tortora of the Marion County, Florida Sheriff’s Office—handler of fallen K9 Leo, and K9 Units WHAT: Remarks, Q/A WHEN: TUESDAY, JULY 22nd at 1:00 pm EST WHERE: House Triangle Media RSVP: Elissa.Tew@mail.house.gov . ###