After going to a SWAT situation that day, detectives said Deputy Wilcox went home, put away his gear and went to meet his family.
"At some point, Deputy Wilcox realized that Robbie, his K9 was possibly still in the vehicle, not in the home, returned to the residence, at which time, Robbie was found deceased in the back of the patrol vehicle," explained Lieutenant Brandon Kutner, with the Alachua County Sheriff's Office.
HOW DO YOU FORGET YOUR PARTNER OF SIX YEARS?!!!
The Criminal Investigations Division is investigating the case. Lt. Kutner added, "As with any investigation, there is a possibility based on the findings that criminal actions could be taken towards Deputy Wilcox; however, it's too early in the investigation."
Wilcox is on leave.
“He requested personal administrative leave to deal with the situation for him and his family,” said Alachua County Sheriff’s Office spokesman Lt. Brandon Kutner.
"He's devastated. Robbie has been his partner for the last six years," Lt. Kutner explained.
Oh so the Sheriff's Office wouldn't have suspended him otherwise??? Nice to know that we should all feel sorry for the piece of crap who killed his partner. No mention of what a horrific death this poor dog suffered while he cooked to death inside this vehicle!
Wilcox has had other K9 dogs. In 2008, Wilcox adopted retired K9 dog Kozar and chose to KILL the aging dog by shooting it.
Kutner said that wasn't illegal, but it did spark a policy change requiring current or former K9 dogs be euthanized by a licensed vet.
Kutner said "If the handler decides they are unable to pay for those services, the Sheriff's Office will provide the funding to have that dog euthanized."
The Sheriff’s Office has eight other K9s on the force. Kurner said it is too early to tell if Wilcox will get another dog.
Why is this even an option? Give Wilcox ANOTHER dog to kill? Why isn't he being fired? Why isn't he being charged with animal cruelty??! It should not even be a question that this POS should NEVER be allowed around animals again! And he should be FIRED immediately!!
(Fox13 - July 13, 2016)
Love that you are on top of this! K9 deaths because of negligent handlers are increasing each year! Government officials need to take responsibility for the incompetent handlers who directly cause the death of their K9 partner who is not only an OFFICER but a sentient being. Tommy Wilcox should NEVER have been given another dog after the inhumane way he executed his retired K9 Kozar. Wilcox has serious mental health issues...
ReplyDeletePS: Not sure why it's making me comment as "Unknown"