LAS VEGAS (KLAS) — A Clark County School District officer faces charges after police said he left his K-9 in a hot car for more than six hours and disabling a safety mechanism, leading to the animal’s death.

James Harris, 54, faces two misdemeanor charges related to leaving an animal unattended in a vehicle and failing to provide proper air, food, shelter, or water to an impounded animal, records said.

CCSDPD K-9 Marley, who was 5, died on Nov. 14, 2024, after Harris allegedly left him unattended in a vehicle for more than six hours while he worked at a high school, documents said.

Harris told investigators he “shut the air off for the passenger compartment” but left “the air on in the rear for K-9 Marley,” documents said. He also told investigators he disconnected a heat sensor that automatically rolls down windows, turns on a fan, and sets off an alarm if the temperature gets too warm inside for an animal.

Harris did not check on the dog for six-and-a-half hours, documents said. When returning to his car, Harris noted the dog needed medical attention.

The temperature that day reached 65 degrees when measured in the shade, records said.

A necropsy determined the dog likely died from a heat-related illness, documents said. Harris was certified as a master handler in 2022.

Las Vegas Justice Court issued Harris a summons. His arraignment was scheduled for March.