A Regina man is facing several serious charges after a violent altercation during a police traffic stop on August 14, 2024. The incident began around 10:35 a.m. in the 1000 block of Dorothy Street when officers attempted to stop a vehicle driven by 29-year-old Nickolas Velikas, who had outstanding warrants.
As police approached, Velikas exited the vehicle with his dog on a leash and commanded the animal to attack the officers, releasing the leash as he fled northbound.
The situation escalated when a K9 officer and a police service dog attempted to apprehend Velikas. Once again, Velikas commanded his dog to attack, resulting in a violent encounter between the two dogs. The suspect’s dog bit the police dog in the neck and shoulder area. Officers initially tried to use pepper spray to stop the attack, but it was ineffective. Ultimately, a taser was used , successfully ending the altercation.
During the arrest, an officer sustained a broken wrist, while both the police dog and Velikas’ dog were treated for non-life-threatening injuries. Animal Control seized Velikas’ dog, and Velikas was taken into custody.
Velikas now faces a range of charges, including two counts of Assault of a Police Officer with a Weapon, Resisting a Peace Officer, Identity Fraud, Assault with Intent to Resist Arrest, and Injuring a Law Enforcement Animal. He is scheduled to make his first court appearance on Thursday, August 15, 2024, at 9:30 a.m.