12-22-03

Criminal Case Closed: The SHADOW Case

The Vermont man who shot a friendly dog playing in a parking lot has been found guilty on a misdemeanor charge. Lewis Dustin has been sentenced to 11 to 12 months in jail (suspended), plus one year of professional counseling, 520 hours of community service and a one-year prohibition from possessing a pellet gun or having a dog in his home. In addition, Dustin has been ordered to pay restitution for the dog's emergency care and burial costs.

The dog, SHADOW, died shortly after being shot. He was on a trip with his guardians, who stopped at a church to feed and water the shepherd-chow-spaniel mix and their other dog. Dustin lives near the church. The elderly man reportedly told the police that he was afraid SHADOW might attack him even though the dog wasn't growling, barking or baring his teeth.

Despite repeated requests from SHADOW's guardians, the local prosecutor refused to bring felony charges or appoint a special prosecutor who would pursue the case vigorously.

ALDF thanks all of the animal advocates who wrote to the prosecutor and the judge to urge vigorous action in this case.

Published 12-22-03 (Washington County, Vermont)