Deputy’s shooting of 17-pound dog prompts N.C. sheriff’s office to make some changes
The Cumberland County sheriff’s department will take no disciplinary action against a deputy who shot and killed a 17-pound dog, but officials say they plan to equip more deputies with non-lethal weapons they can use on animals in similar situations.
Ronnie Mitchell, a lawyer with the Sheriff’s Office, said the agency had completed its investigation of the May 23 shooting by Deputy Barbara Siau, assigned to the Child Support Enforcement Unit.
“There’s no dismissal, no suspension or no demotion,” Mitchell said.
Mitchell told the Fayetteville Observer that deputies will undergo training in how to deal with animals, and some will be equipped with devices such as stun guns, chemical sprays and batons for use in non-lethal situations.
Siau had gone to Dana Anderson’s home in Hope Mills, N.C., looking for someone else when Gizmo, a Pekingese-dachshund mix, slipped out the door. Anderson said Siau kicked Gizmo when the dog ran toward her, then shot him.
Anderson said she was pleased to learn deputies will carry non-lethal tools. But she still believes she could have stopped Gizmo before the deputy fired, had she been given the chance.
“The thing that gets me, she should have gave me the opportunity to get him,” Anderson said.
Posted by jwoestendiek June 1st, 2012 under Muttsblog.
Tags: animals, cumberland county, dachshund, deputies, dog, dogs, fayetteville, gizmo, killed, mix, non-lethal, north carolina, pekingese, pets, police, safety, sheriff, shot, weapons
Comments
Comment from James Lewis
Time June 2, 2012 at 6:40 am
You know what though it’s a different situation when it’s you or me that dog is running out on. That’s an irresponsible owner. My dog has never “slipped” out the door. Not saying the cop was right to shoot the dog but who knows what I would have done with a gun in hand and a dog running at me. No matter the size.
Comment from Jeff
Time September 15, 2012 at 8:05 pm
Well then, James Lewis, it is a damn blessing that a sociopath like you does not have a gun in your hand.
Comment from KateH
Time June 1, 2012 at 9:57 am
It’s so insulting to the community and the owner that nothing is done when a cop loses all sense and overreacts to a dog. It doesn’t make the community any safer, and it does make many individuals feel less safe around cops, so it has a net bad effect to not discipline in any way. I hope she at least gets some razzing from the others cops for being such a drama queen.