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Maryland Mayor Questions PG Co. Dog Restraint Policy

August 10, 2010
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By Elliott Francis

Prince George’s County Sheriff’s records indicate deputies have shot 10 domestic dogs in 9 incidents between 2005 and 2010. One politician in the county says it’s a pattern of excessive force that should be addressed.

Two years ago, Berwyn Heights, Maryland Mayor Cheye Calvo’s pair of Labradors were shot and killed by Sheriff’s deputies during a controversial raid on his house. Calvo is suing County Sheriff Michael A. Jackson. When Donya Williams’ dog Kato was shot and killed by a deputy Friday, Calvo offered her his support, and a course of action.

“Today I am filing a motion in our court case to compel Sheriff Jackson to disclose the names and the incidents of dogs being killed by his office, promptly!,” exclaims Williams.

Donya Williams says although Sheriff Jackson called the day after to express regret over the shooting of her dog, she still questions department procedure in the matter and the motive of the officers who responded.

Sheriff’s Office spokesperson Sgt. Yakesha Hines says the department is addressing the issue with a policy which went into effect back in March.

“Every deputy has to attend mandatory training in reference to handling dogs, that includes recognizing that an animal is present," says Hines.

The deputy involved in the shooting has been placed on administrative leave pending an investigation.

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