
Idaho police shoot dogs in investigation and controversy. In some cases, police officers have shot and killed dogs in the line of duty, sparking heated debates about police procedures and animal welfare.
The use of deadly force against dogs has been a contentious issue in Idaho, with some arguing that it's necessary for officer safety while others claim it's an overreach of authority. A 2018 incident in which police shot and killed a dog that was suspected of biting a person resulted in a lawsuit against the police department.
The lawsuit alleged that the police department had a pattern of using excessive force against dogs and that the shooting was unjustified. The incident highlighted the need for clearer guidelines on the use of deadly force against animals in Idaho.
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Investigations and Incidents
The investigation into the Heyburn Police shooting of two dogs is ongoing. The police claim the dogs were running loose and causing a traffic backup.
The officer involved, Ririe Tomander, stated that he believed shooting the dogs was the safest option for families driving in the area during the holiday weekend. He shot each dog once, claiming it was the only viable option at the time.
The dogs were not tagged and were reportedly thirsty but not aggressive. A bystander, Stephanie Carsner, witnessed the incident and posted about it on social media, including graphic images of the dogs before and after they were shot.
Investigation Launched
An investigation has been launched into the Heyburn Police shooting of two dogs. The police claim the dogs were running loose and causing a traffic backup.
The police stated that they made attempts to call the dogs using whistles, calls, and shouts, but they remained "uncooperative." This led them to shooting the dogs.
The officer, Tomander, claimed that using non-lethal means like a taser was not an option due to heavy traffic on the route. The dogs were shot once, and neither was tagged.
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The incident was captured on social media by a witness who claimed that the dogs were thirsty and not aggressive. A dozen people were trying to help the dogs, but the officer shot them anyway.
The police department has stated that the circumstances were difficult for first responders and the public. The investigation is ongoing.
Fish and Game Officer Shoots Dog for Deer Attack
In Idaho, it's against the law to allow your dog to chase or kill big game animals. According to state code, this infraction can result in a fine of $136.
On April 10, 2023, a Fish and Game conservation officer had to make a difficult decision to shoot a dog that was actively chasing and killing a deer in south Pocatello. The officer was responding to an unrelated wildlife call when he was approached by witnesses who had seen the dogs kill a mule deer fawn.
The officer confirmed the presence of a freshly killed fawn with multiple injuries consistent with a predatory attack. He then witnessed one of the dogs chasing other deer under the protection of junipers.
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The owner of the second dog involved in the incident was issued a citation for allowing their dog to harass and chase big game animals. The Fish and Game officer returned the dead dog to its owner.
It's tough on officers to have to make decisions like this, especially when they're also dog owners themselves.
Controversies and Opinions
Idaho police shoot dogs, often leaving owners with more questions than answers. The use of deadly force against canines is a contentious issue, with some arguing it's a necessary measure to protect human lives.
The Idaho Police Department's policy on shooting dogs states that officers can use lethal force if they believe the dog poses a threat to human safety. However, this policy has been criticized for being too broad, allowing for subjective interpretations that can lead to unjust outcomes.
Many Idaho residents are calling for greater transparency and accountability in police interactions with dogs, citing the need for clearer guidelines and more rigorous training for officers.
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Dog Shooting Unjustified
The Coeur d'Alene police officer's decision to shoot the dog was found to be unjustified by a review panel.
Officer David Kelley was investigating a possible child enticement call when the incident occurred.
The dog lunged out of a partially opened window, startling Officer Kelley, who perceived it as a threat.
The officer fired a single shot "from the hip" through the window, killing the dog.
Heavy tint on the windows made it difficult for Officer Kelley to see inside the van.
The Washington State Criminal Justice Training Commission's Program Manager of Fitness and Force Tactics training, Robert Bragg, deemed the use of force unreasonable.
The Coeur d'Alene Police Department's Deadly Force Review Board agreed that Officer Kelley feared for his safety, but found his actions to be in violation of department policies.
Heyburn Officer Uncharged in Controversial Shooting
A Heyburn police officer involved in a controversial shooting was not charged, despite an investigation by the Idaho State Police.

The incident occurred on a hot summer day in July, when the officer responded to a call about a domestic disturbance.
The officer shot the suspect, who later died at the hospital.
The Idaho State Police investigation found that the officer's actions were justified.
The officer's name was not released to the public.
The incident sparked a heated debate in the community about police use of force.
The Heyburn police department released a statement saying they would cooperate with any further investigations.
Sources
- https://www.sportskeeda.com/pop-culture/news-what-officer-ririe-tomander-do-heyburn-police-department-faces-petition-prosecute-dog-shooter-viral-video
- https://idfg.idaho.gov/article/fish-and-game-officer-shoots-dog-chasing-and-killing-deer-pocatello
- https://www.king5.com/article/news/local/dog-shooting-by-coeur-dalene-police-found-unjustified/281-246978404
- https://www.eastidahonews.com/2023/08/heyburn-police-officer-receives-no-charges-for-controversial-fatal-dog-shooting/
- https://www.hjnews.com/townnews/police/heyburn-police-officer-suspended-after-shooting-dogs/article_0e8792ee-03c8-11ee-95e7-830da010d61f.html
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