A group of friends are seeking justice for a six-year-old Boxer who was shot and killed earlier this year after Prince George’s County police allegedly entered the home where the dog lived concerning a possible dog bite without a warrant.
According to the Washington Post, the two police officers involved were suspended; a third officer was placed on administrative leave. An investigation continues.
Attorneys for the four friends who watched their dog Hennessy be subjected to animal cruelty want the police to change how residents with a different skin color are treated.
The incident occurred in June at a Landover Hills apartment after someone reported a biting incident by two dogs. The victim pointed to where she thought the dogs lived. Police contend the dogs had run away from their owners that day and jumped on a neighbor. It is not clear if the person was bitten.
The police officer then went to a maintenance person for a key to the apartment after no one responded to his knock at the door.
Attorneys for the residents who lived in the apartment, stated authorities entered without permission or securing a warrant. Once inside of the apartment, the scene turned into one of chaos after police threatened one of the tenant’s harm. When one dog left the open door of the bedroom during the melee, an officer fired at Hennessy – one officer shot the dog, and the other officer used his stun gun.
The woman videoing the disturbing incident stated Hennessy was not being aggressive. Erica Umana had owned Hennessy for six years since she was a puppy.
Tragically, the injuries to Hennessy were fatal. The bullet went through her neck and chest, and the dog was paralyzed. The dog had to be humanely euthanized at the emergency veterinarian hospital.
The neighbor who complained she had been attacked by Hennessy never followed up with a complaint to Animal Control. The other dog allegedly involved in the incident was released after having been quarantined as required by law. Still there has not been confirmation if the woman who reported the dogs had ever been bitten.
Updates to follow.
(Photo via screenshot Erica Umana and Hennessy)
Follow the National Pet Rescue on Facebook for the latest animal related news.
© Rescue Writers, 2016, All Rights Reserved
Own your own one-of-a-kind design! All sales help support the continuation of our site. Pick your favorite color and style at this link.
