Controversial Park Officer’s Threat to Service Dog Emerges a Year Later

An incident that unfolded a year ago at Davis Mountains State Park has resurfaced after the victim recognized the park officer involved during a Big Bend Times Facebook Live video. The incident, which has only recently come to light, centers around a disturbing encounter where a park officer threatened to send a visitor’s critical cardiac alert service dog to the animal shelter. The victim, who has chosen to remain anonymous, shared her story via email, marking the ninth such incident of potential misconduct involving park police officer Jacob Barton that the Big Bend Times has uncovered.

The incident occurred on July 5th, 2022, during the July 4th weekend when a group of friends embarked on a camping trip to Davis Mountains State Park. Among them was an individual relying on a service dog for cardiac alert, mobility assistance, and blocking tasks. The service dog was a lifeline, providing indispensable support for the camper’s well-being.

However, what should have been an idyllic outdoor excursion took a harrowing turn when a member of the group received an urgent voicemail from a park officer. The officer insisted that they retrieve the service dog within ten minutes, accompanied by a threat to send the animal to the local animal shelter if they failed to comply. This prompted an immediate and frantic return to the campsite, placing unnecessary stress on the camper, who had physical and cardiac disabilities.

Upon their return to the campsite, the situation escalated further. The park officer not only questioned the group about a few rusty horseshoe nails but also conducted an extensive search of their belongings, vehicles, and packs, leaving the campers feeling violated and distressed.

The shocking aspect of this incident was the officer’s insistence on searching the belongings of every group member, even including a minor. Even the child was not spared, as the officer accused them of “removing natural resources from the park” due to a few rocks, despite the intention to use them for harmless play at the campsite.

Throughout this ordeal, the officer’s actions drew concern from his fellow officers, who questioned the necessity of his actions and the unnecessary expenditure of county resources.

The repercussions of this incident were severe, with the officer issuing multiple tickets to each member of the group, resulting in fines exceeding $1000 per couple. These tickets included charges related to removing historical artifacts and natural resources from the park, even though the rocks in question were never actually removed from the park.

What makes this incident particularly significant is the victim’s recent recognition of the officer involved during a Big Bend Times Facebook Live video. She reached out via email to share her harrowing experience, marking the first time it has been reported. This incident is the ninth of potential misconduct that the Big Bend Times is currently aware of involving park police officer Jacob Barton.

The emergence of this story raises concerns about the conduct and accountability of park officers and highlights the need for proper training and discretion among park personnel. The victim’s decision to come forward, while keeping her identity anonymous, underscores the importance of transparency and accountability in law enforcement, particularly in sensitive situations involving individuals with disabilities.

As the investigation unfolds, many are watching closely to see whether this incident will lead to changes in park policies and procedures, ensuring fair and compassionate treatment for all visitors.