GEORGIA -- An Americus police officer was released on bond Thursday after turning himself in to authorities.
Sumter County Sheriff’s Chief Deputy Col. Eric Bryant said Officer William Lamb, 31, of Americus, who handles a K9 officer (dog) was charged with one count of aggravated cruelty to animals.
Superior Court Judge George Peagler set a $5,000 (recognizance) bond and Lamb was released.
The charge stems from an incident that occurred at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday in a U.S. Highway 280 East neighborhood where Lamb resides.
Bryant said Lamb was walking his K-9 officer when he saw a neighbor Joseph Winn’s pit bull named CJ escape from its yard, running over to Lamb's property.
Bryant said Lamb took his K-9 officer back inside, and came out with a .270 rifle and shot the pit bull. Then he (Lamb) walked over to the wooded area where the dog was lying down and whimpering, and shot the dog again; this time killing CJ.
Lamb allegedly admitted CJ did not bark, growl or show any aggression. Lamb stated he didn't want the dog fighting with his police dog.
Bryant said witnesses said they heard two shots but only one shell casing was found.
Laura Lee Bernstein, CEO, City of Americus told the Times-Recorder that Lamb was on Family Medical Leave and would upon his return to duty, would be placed on unpaid administrative leave until the case is adjudicated.
(Americus Times Recorder - Nov 21, 2014)
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