Loose pit bull shot by patrolman

PENNSYLVANIA -- A Sharon patrolman was forced to shoot one of two pit bulls who were charging him Wednesday afternoon.

The animal is alive after being treated by a local veterinarian who removed the bullet, police said.

The owner was cited for having dogs at large.

Sharon police have been called to the 400 block of Ormond Avenue three or four times before about the same dogs.

At 4:15 p.m. Wednesday, residents called police again about the two pit bulls running loose, chasing people and acting aggressively.

The patrolman found the two dogs in an alley and was trapped in the police car for a bit while they barked and scratched at the doors and windows.

When he was able to get out of the car, the two dogs charged him and growled, showing their teeth, police said.

He was forced to draw his service pistol and shoot the dog closest to him, causing the other to retreat.

Police Chief Michael Menster said the dogs’ kennel is not secure.

“The officer made a split-second decision. He didn’t have time to go through all options,” Menster said, referring to the possible use of a taser on the dog.

“We don’t like to shoot animals, but if it comes down to an officer getting mauled by a dog, he’s going to shoot every time,” he said.

Menster said the dogs’ owner needs to be responsible and keep the dogs secure.

(Sharonherald - Sept 21, 2013)