A beagle named Freddy, a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) detector dog, is recovering after being violently kicked by a traveler at Washington Dulles International Airport. The incident occurred when 70-year-old Hamed Ramadan Bayoumy Aly Marie, who had arrived from Cairo, ignored instructions and subsequently kicked Freddy with such force that he was lifted off the ground. Although Freddy sustained bruising, he is expected to make a full recovery, as noted in a statement by CBP, which also mentioned that the dog was enjoying a favorite treat post-recovery.
Marie pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of harming a law enforcement animal. He was ordered to leave the U.S. and took a flight back to Egypt shortly after his court appearance. The incident has raised awareness of the importance of respecting working animals, particularly in law enforcement settings. In a statement reflecting on the event, CBP emphasized that smuggling should not justify violence against animals performing their duties.
Freddy, a 5-year-old beagle, was part of the CBP’s agriculture detection team, which plays a critical role in preventing prohibited agricultural products from entering the U.S. His detection led to the discovery of several illegal items in Marie’s luggage, including beef, rice, vegetables, corn seeds, and herbs. These items were confiscated as they posed risks to American agriculture.
CBP officials underscored the importance of their canine teams in safeguarding the U.S. from pests, diseases, and potential agricultural threats. Last year alone, CBP intercepted over 3,500 prohibited plant and animal products at U.S. ports of entry. The role of detection canines like Freddy has become increasingly significant in the agency’s operations.
The court ruling serves as a reminder of the consequences for harming animals used in law enforcement. In addition to being credited with time served, Marie was required to pay Freddy’s veterinary expenses and report to CBP for his removal from the United States, a point driven home by CBP officials.
As the investigation concluded, the incident sparked discussions around the treatment of working animals and the importance of their contributions to public safety. The case exemplifies the legal protections in place for law enforcement animals and reinforces the CBP’s commitment to ensuring their safety while they fulfill their critical roles. Freddy’s swift recovery stands testament to the supportive measures in place for working dogs injured in the line of duty.
