[Ronin]

That remark in itself shows utter stupidity. That dog is NOT an officer of the law. The dog is a tool that is used by law enforcement officers. The dog does not carry a badge, has not sworn an oath, etc. etc. etc.

Now I like dogs and cats and other furry animals, but let’s get real here.

[Orange1998]

please explain.

[ninergold3]

Here is Ohio's Statute regarding police dogs: Ohio Revised Code 2921.32.1. No person shall knowingly cause or attempt to cause physical harm to a police dog or horse in either of the following,if the dog or horse is assisting a police officer in doing his official duties or the dog or horse is not assisting the officer but the offender has actual knowledge that the dog/horse is a police dog or police horse. This statute also covers handicapped assistance dogs. A violation of this statute where death results it is a Felony of the 4th degree( 6 months to 18 months in jail and a $5,000 fine ). Serious physical harm to the dog/horse it's a Felony of the 5th degree (6 months to 12 months and $2,500 fine ). Physical harm is a Misdemeanor of the 1st degree ( no time to 6 months & $1,000 fine). If no harm is involved it is a Misd of the 2nd degree ( no time to 90 days & $750 fine )

http://www.policek9.com/html/statutes.html#Ohio

[Lurker]

Agreed. Unless the dog can get on the Witness Stand, be sworn, and testify, there's no charge here.

In fact I'd countersue under 18USC242 for an Intentional Deprivation of Civil Rights Under False Color of Authority with the Special Circumstance of being armed while doing it.

I'd own this cop, his wife, his kids, his house, the PD, and the entire Municipality.

L

[SamAdams76]

Actually police dogs are issued badges and are generally considered the equal of police officers. Most departments also consider their K-9 dogs to be sworn officers of the law and if they are killed in the line of duty, they are given a full police funeral. The intentional harming of a K-9 police dog is a felony and the killing of one could result in a murder charge. In fact, in states with a death penalty, it can be considered a capitol offense - although I don't believe a death sentence was ever carried out for the murdering of a police dog.

It does require a lot of training for a canine to make the force and once sworn in, the canine is considered to be part of the force just like any human officer and they are accorded all privileges and benefits thereof.

I know this might sound a little hokey to some of you but most police departments take their canine partners very seriously.