K-9 Andii recovering after being shot by Madison sex offender: Rockford Police

ROCKFORD, Ill. (WTVO) — Rockford Police say K-9 Andii, who was shot multiple times while in pursuit of a suspect on Saturday, is on the mend.

Police shared an update on Tuesday, saying, “Despite sustaining injuries in the line of duty, Andii is doing great! Her strength and spirit have been nothing short of amazing. We are so proud of her—and incredibly grateful that her ballistic vest, generously donated by supporters like YOU, played a critical role in protecting her. It truly was a lifesaver, and so is she.”

Around 3:50 p.m., on Saturday, April 19th, officers pulled Vernon Frills, 38, over in the 1300 block of East State Street, near the Circle K gas station. He fled on foot from officers, who sent K-9 Andii after him.

Authorities said Frills shot the K-9 soon after, injuring the dog’s paw and shoulder,.

Frills, who is from Madison, Wisconsin, faces charges of Attempted Murder of a Police Officer, Unlawful Use of a Weapon by a Felon, Aggravated Discharge of a Firearm at a Police Officer, Armed Violence, Possession of a Controlled Substance (MDMA), Injuring a Police K-9, Obstructing Justice, and an outstanding warrant from Wisconsin.

Wisconsin court records show Frills is a convicted sex offender for repeated acts of sexual assault against the same child, stemming from a 2010 case in Dane County.

According to Winnebago County Court records, Frills was due to make his first court appearance at 1:30 p.m. on Monday before Judge Heidi Agustsson.

However, records show Frills refused to appear.

Frills now has a new court date: April 23rd.