Young’s Bill Would Make Injuring K-9 Officer A Felony
The Jamestown Police Department’s K-9 Officer Mitchell, who was seriously injured in November while apprehending a murder suspect, could soon have a major impact statewide.
In recognition of his heroic actions, state Sen. Cathy Young has introduced “Mitchell’s Law,” which would make it a felony to injure a K-9 officer in the line of duty. Currently, suspects can only be charged with a Class A misdemeanor for injuring a police dog.
“K-9 Officer Mitchell is a hero for his work assisting in the capture of a suspected murderer,” said Young, R-Olean. “His injuries were very serious and a stiffer penalty is warranted.”
Mitchell, a 6-year-old German Shepherd who’s been with the JPD since 2011, was injured during a confrontation with murder suspect Keith Robbins on Nov. 15 following a six-hour standoff at a Todd Avenue home.
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