The Navajo County Attorney’s Office has declined prosecution of a Winslow Police Department Animal Control officer who was investigated regarding a May 4, call for service and response by animal control.
According to WPD, on May 4, an officer with the Winslow Police Department was assigned a call for service in the 900 block of North Apache. While there, it was reported that a dog came up behind the officer and bit him. The officer pulled his leg away from the dog, and the dog returned to its yard. The officer then contacted Animal Control to respond to the scene and capture the dog. The animal control officer attempted to capture the dog using a “Ketch” pole, which is a pole designed for use by animal control professionals. The dog was taken to Winslow Animal Control and was examined by a veterinarian and reported in good health and was released to its owner.
Two days later on May 6, the City of Winslow received a complaint of animal abuse during the capture and loading of the dog into the impound vehicle. Video taken during the incident by residents show a dog being dragged along the pavement on its side with the Ketch pole around its neck.
In accordance with city policy, WPD commenced an investigation into the actions of the animal control officer and placed the officer on paid administrative leave, which is customary in these types of situations. The department stated that a comprehensive investigation file including witness interviews, and video recordings were submitted to the Navajo County Attorney’s Office for review, the office determining the incident did not warrant legal action.
On July 10, 2024, the animal control officer was returned to work in a restricted capacity pending the outcome of the administrative investigation.
The City of Winslow is now completing its internal investigation. The city takes all allegations of animal abuse seriously and is conducting a thorough review of Department operations and assessing opportunities to improve training and staff support.
