SEATTLE — Garrett Merlino was in the midst of a severe mental health crisis when Seattle police encountered him two years ago at a West Seattle home. Body camera footage shows him becoming combative with officers, refusing orders, and even choking his dog before the encounter turned violent.
“I can do whatever I want!” Merlino shouted at officers, according to police body camera recordings. The confrontation ended with Merlino biting two officers and attempting to gouge their eyes, police said. He was also the prime suspect in a burglary that night that caused thousands of dollars in property damage.
Prosecutors charged Merlino with malicious mischief, burglary, assault and animal cruelty. He had two pending domestic violence cases as well. Merlino didn’t stay in jail long. A King County Judge released him on his own recognizance three weeks later…