EVANSVILLE, Ind. (WFIE) – Evansville Police say an officer had to shoot a dog during an investigation into animal neglect.
It happened Monday, around 12:45 p.m., in the 600 block of College Highway.
Police have also released body camera footage of the incident.
They say animal control officers had previously been to the house 16 times because of neglect concerns, and they called for police to help remove a large dog.
Officers say after about 30 minutes on the scene, the owner was told to put the dog on a leash and walk it to the animal control truck.
They say as the owner was attempting to leash the dog, it starting running at an officer.
The press release from police had the word “attempting” in quotes.
Police say the dog was aggressive and jumped up with its mouth open.
Because of the threat, they say the officer fired three rounds from his gun, which killed the animal.
Police say the owner was cited for animal neglect.
They say the dog was being kept in an open air kennel with a tarp around two sides.
Officers say the only water was frozen in a bowl, and it was 24 degrees outside.
Police say the investigation is ongoing and more charges may be considered.
14 News has heard from family members of the dog’s owner.
They tell us the dog does not live outside, but just needed some air.
Family members say it was a Caucasian Shepherd, which is a breed of dog that can withstand cold temperatures.
They claim they were told to release the dog from its leash.
Family members say they plan to “seek justice.”
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