Man charged after attempting to hit, drown K9 officer during chase in NE Harris Co., HCSO says

Thursday, January 8, 2026
HARRIS COUNTY, Texas (KTRK) -- A man has been charged with interference with a service animal after injuring a K9 officer as deputies tried to serve a warrant in northeast Harris County, according to Sheriff Ed Gonzalez.

On Monday, the K-9, Ghost, was deployed to assist deputies in the 14200 block of Lockwood Drive in attempting to locate the suspect identified as Bryan Crofton.

The Harris County Sheriff's Office said that Crofton had open warrants for injury to a child.

Once deputies spotted Crofton, a chase began, and he crashed into a ditch before fleeing on foot towards a marshy pond, officials said.

Ghost and his handler, Officer Almeida, went after Crofton through the area. HCSO said the dog subdued the suspect by biting him, but Crofton allegedly hit the K9 and tried to drown it, causing the animal to lose consciousness, in an attempt to flee again.



Other deputies located him again and took him into custody. He was taken to the hospital for medical treatment.

The K-9 Ghost was transported to a vet clinic for treatment, HCSO said.

In court on Tuesday, a judge said Crofton was likely to flee again and deemed him a threat to public safety. Officials did not elaborate on a bond amount or conditions.
Copyright © 2026 KTRK-TV. All Rights Reserved.