**Target:** Chief of Police, Prince George’s County Police Department
**Goal:** Demand accountability and appropriate disciplinary action for the shooting of a dog allegedly without just cause.
Serious concerns have arisen following the shocking incident in which a police officer allegedly shot and killed a dog during a response to an animal attack. As reported, two dogs were involved in a disturbing attack on a man, resulting in “serious injuries” to his face. However, the circumstances surrounding the fatal shooting remain troubling and require thorough investigation. Internal affairs of the Prince George’s County Police Department are reportedly examining the incident, as it raises significant questions about the protocols followed in situations like this.
Eyewitness accounts suggest that the dog shot by the officer was not necessarily a direct threat at the time of the shooting. The police department stated that the dog had been “charging toward the officer” before the shot was fired, but the lack of clarity in this statement coupled with the absence of a proper crisis intervention approach raises questions about the justification for lethal force. The aftermath of this incident saw one dog dead and serious injuries inflicted upon a human victim, underscoring the urgent need for accountability in police actions regarding community safety and animal welfare.
Change is essential to foster greater transparency, accountability, and respect for the lives of both humans and animals. The demand is clear: there must be a thorough investigation of the incident and appropriate disciplinary actions taken against those involved if the actions of the officer are found to be unjustified. It is vital to ensure that incidents such as these do not repeat, and that all community members—human and animal alike—are safeguarded.
PETITION LETTER:
Dear Chief of Police,
The recent incident involving the police shooting of a dog while responding to an alleged animal attack demands immediate attention and accountability. Reports indicate that a man suffered severe facial injuries due to the attack by two dogs, yet questions linger about the shooting of one of the animals by a police officer. The claim by the police department that the dog was “charging toward the officer” lacks transparent substantiation and raises serious concerns regarding the justification for such a drastic action.
As this event unfolded, a dog that may not have posed an immediate threat was killed, exacerbating the distress caused by the overall incident. The community seeks clarity on how decisions were made and what protocols were in place to protect both the individual being attacked and the animals involved. With one dog dead and a human victim hospitalized, it is paramount that measures be taken to appropriately investigate the incident and hold responsible parties accountable if wrongdoing is found.
We urge you to initiate a proper investigation into this matter and ensure that any police officer found to have misused their authority is subjected to appropriate disciplinary action. It is crucial that the Prince George’s County Police Department demonstrates a commitment to accountability, transparency, and the protection of all community members, both human and animal.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo credit: Pixabay
