Princeton Police Chief Tyrone Sutton announced Thursday afternoon an internal investigation into the fatal shooting of a pit bull at an address on Pine Street Sunday night 
was “justified”.
Officer D. Toole had responded to a complaint of an aggressive dog running loose in the area. He arrived and after locating the dog named Libby, it reportedly lunged at the officer at which time the 14 month-old animal was shot and killed.
Officer Toole fired two shots. One fatally injured Libby. The second struck a parked car.
Libby’s owner, Emily Taylor, claims police are covering up the facts of the shooting.
Chief Sutton said the investigation was open and transparent and the findings were immediately released today upon the completion of his investigation. Here is the full Princeton Police report:
Investigative Findings of August 12, 2018
The Princeton Police Department has concluded its investigation into the incident, which resulted in the destruction of a pet on August 12th, 2018. During this investigation, the dog in question was seen in different areas of town. Numerous witnesses to the incident provided written statements which illustrated a consistent description of the dog’s behavior as being aggressive, and causing fear. All of these circumstances substantiate the claims the dog was unrestrained, uncontrolled, and acting aggressively.
It is never the intention of the Princeton Police Department to cause death or serious bodily injury to any living thing in any situation. The safety of the residents of Princeton is our first priority. No person or animal is permitted to cause harm or fear in a threatening manner to our residents or persons in our jurisdiction regardless of circumstances causing these actions. It is common knowledge animals act differently in different areas, under different stressors, and when unaccompanied, or outside their “safe zone” or residential habitat. It is clearly understood, that aggressive behavior may be effected by different stimuli, and is not breed specific. It is also clear that fear when combined with confusion and stress may lead to behavior unexpected, or out of the norm in domesticated and feral animals.
This investigation was conducted in an objective, and thorough manner. Propriety was maintained at all times during the process. Eyewitnesses, scene investigation, and administrative investigation was employed to produce the findings. Based on eyewitness accounts, and officer statements, it has been determined the shooting was justified. All incidents of this nature gives our police department a pause to reflect upon and improve on our investigation process.
The Princeton Police Department offers our deepest sympathy and sincere condolences to Ms. Taylor for the loss of her pet.
Ms. Taylor says she has spoken with an attorney and the SBI about the shooting. The Town of Princeton will reimburse Ms. Taylor for the damages to her car.
