A 34 year old Regina man is facing a charge of sexual assault and several other charges connected to his arrest, including injuring a police dog. Regina Police say on Thursday morning, several patrol units and a Canine team set out to arrest a man alleged to have sexually assaulted a 24 year old woman.

Officers were taking extra caution because it was thought he may be armed and violent. Police report that officers spotted the suspect leaving his home and followed on foot. The Canine officer ordered him to stop, but police say he ran instead and the dog was sent in pursuit. He got the man’s leg, but then broke away unexpectedly and the man continued to run. A patrol officer was able to take the suspect to the ground without incident. Police Service Dog Ralph was taken to the vet clinic for treatment of serious injuries. He is expected to make a full recovery.

Joel Kerry Maurer faces charges that include sexual assault, carrying a concealed weapon and injuring a law enforcement animal.