Columbia dog shooting angers owner, friend
Police say off-duty Baltimore officer was protecting his dogs, wife
By Mike Santa Rita
msantarita@patuxent.com
Posted 11/17/09
(Enlarge) Allye McClellan and her boyfriend, Jonathan Obermaier, work on a memorial they made for Obermaier’s dog, Brody, who was shot and killed Nov. 7 by an off-duty Baltimore City police officer. Obermaier, of Columbia, filed a complaint with the Office of Internal Affairs in Baltimore. (Staff photo by Sarah Nix-Pastrana)
But Howard County police, who investigated the shooting, said the pit bull mix, which was not on a leash, attacked the officer’s dogs and then his wife, and that the officer shot the dog to protect them.
No charges have been filed against the officer, said county police spokeswoman Sherry Llewellyn.
Det. Donny Moses, a Baltimore Police Department spokesman, confirmed that Officer Stephen Wilson, a five-year veteran, was the subject of an internal affairs investigation for the incident, but declined to comment further, except to say that off-duty officers are allowed to carry their guns. He declined a request to interview Wilson, stating that an officer can not comment on an open investigation.
Police and neighborhood accounts of the incident are in dispute. But both said the officer was walking with his wife and his two dogs on Stonebrook Lane on Saturday afternoon, Nov. 7, when the pit bull mix, named Brody, came out of his home and approached the two dogs.
Llewellyn said the pit bull mix became aggressive and attacked the two other dogs. When the officer tried to separate the dogs, she said, the pit bull mix charged at his wife, and the officer shot it.
But Amanda Snook, a friend of the dog’s owner who was moving into her new house on Stonebrook Lane that afternoon and witnessed the shooting, said the pit bull mix was just playing with the other dogs.
“It wasn’t anything that was scary,” Snook said. “He (Brody) gets excited when he sees other dogs.”
Snook said the shooting could have been avoided. “His (the officer’s) wife started screaming,” she said. “As I walked up to grab him the guy pulls out his gun and shoots him twice.” Snook said Brody did not lunge at the officer’s wife.
After the shooting, Brody ran back into his house, leaving a trail of blood behind him. He later died on the way to the hospital, Snook said.
Snook said the officer overreacted and shot too quickly. “He was just so quick to pull out his gun,” she said.
The dog’s owner, Jonathan Obermaier, who was not at the scene, agreed. “I can’t imagine that this police officer could go from A to Z just like that,” he said.
Brody, Obermaier said, had a gentle nature. “He’s never hurt a person or another dog before,” he said.
Obermaier said Brody was 3 years old and had been rescued from a shelter in Massachusetts a year-and-half ago.
Obermaier said he filed a complaint with the Baltimore Police Department’s Internal Affairs Division about the shooting, but was told by officers there that if an officer feels threatened he has the right to shoot his gun.
He said he was not satisfied with the response of the Howard County police, whom he said told his mother, Cyndi, “It’s just a dog,” during the investigation.
Howard County police did not immediately return an inquiry on what the investigating officer said.
Obermaier said he plans to file a complaint against the Howard County Police Department.
Snook said she, too, was dissatisfied with the investigation. Police offered to call a counseling service for her, she said, but that was not what she wanted.
“There’s not anything that was done about it (the shooting),” she said.
user comments (96)
user concernedcitizen27 says...
Danny Moses is not a Howard County peace officer, nor was he pursuing an official duty. Therefore, he should be charged with felony unlawful discharging of a firearm and cruelty to animals.
Posted 3:58 PM, 11.17.09
user concernedcitizen27 says...
My mistake, Donny Moses was not the officer. Nonetheless, Stephen Wilson should be fired. He's probably a Baltimore City cop because Howard County wouldn't hire him. And he should not have been carrying his firearm, when out of his jurisdiction, off-duty per, Md. Criminal Law Code Ann. 4-203. I don't like Pit Bulls off a leash, and the owner should be fined. But the rule of law must be followed, and Stephen Wilson has demonstrated he is not worthy of the public's trust.
Posted 4:26 PM, 11.17.09
user jailbird1 says...
did he use his SERVICE or personal firearm. carry permit? keep the dog on a leash. i would have shot him too.
Posted 5:01 PM, 11.17.09
user mcg1075 says...
Concernedcitizen27, you might want to look up Mr. Obermaier's criminal record before deciding who's telling the truth.
Posted 5:22 PM, 11.17.09
user mcg1075 says...
You can look his record up on the MD Casesearch website.
Posted 5:22 PM, 11.17.09
user civilcolumbian says...
"Gentle dog?" Does a gentle dog charge after small children? Here's something that wasn't in the story: that dog attacked another neighbor's dog, again while not on a leash. He wasn't being playful, he actually bit the other dog. The owners filed a police report. Maybe when Obermeyer files her complaint against the Howard County police, she can read the report in person.
Posted 5:29 PM, 11.17.09
user suzdujour says...
Ms. Snook appears to have a criminal record as well... so not putting their dog on a leash isn't surprising, is it? Why follow the rules even if they keep the community safe...a typical criminal response is to NOT follow ANY rules, but they'll certainly cry foul when they're crossed. I'll bet they'll even try to sue before it's all said and done.
Posted 5:44 PM, 11.17.09
user concernedcitizen27 says...
All of you are too pre-occupied with the owners. The issue is that we have a Baltimore City Police officer, with the powers to make arrests and impose deadly force, so depraved as to shoot a dog in a neighborhood. This fetish police officers have of late with shhoting dogs is inexcusable. BCPD even shot one of their own dogs last week. An Mr. Wilson should not be treated as a police officer when he is in Howard County. He should be held to the same standard as a private citizen. And that standard calls for criminal charges.
Posted 6:12 PM, 11.17.09
user lacrosse02 says...
to concernedcitizen27, i dont know where you're getting your info from, but an off duty police officer has the right to carry his weapon off duty.....anywhere in the state!!! You need to re-read 4-203, officers of this state are authorized to carry their firearms!
Posted 6:19 PM, 11.17.09
user samm says...
This owner should be fined for having the dog off leash and unless the officer was carrying a weapon illegally,he should not be found to be at any fault in this situation. It appears that Mr Obermaier, both of his parents and his friend Ms Snook are less than perfect citizens. Their credibility is questionable at best.
Posted 6:19 PM, 11.17.09
user belovedcartoonmouse says...
All County and City Police Officers are allowed to carry weapons under Md. Crim. Law Code 4-203(b)(1)(i). You don't know what you're talking about. Do yourself a favor and shut up. MCG great call on the Maryland Case Search. The "victim" certainly appears to have an interesting past with the criminal justice system.
Posted 7:43 PM, 11.17.09
user wkjohnson says...
Any police officer in good standing can carry a firearm off-duty in Maryland regardless of their agency. HR -218 is a federal law that allows officers to carry in other states as well.
Posted 7:49 PM, 11.17.09
user animossad says...
The dog was off it's leash, it's attacked other animals previously, an off duty cop says the dog attacked his animals, seemed ready to attack his wife, and there's a question if he should have shot the dog? What did you want him to do, sit down and try to reason with the animal? The dog's owner is liable for all damages including the trauma of forcing the officer to protect his wife. If I were the officer I would file a liability suit against him and his insurance company. Most insurance companies wont write coverage on a house if they know about a pitt bull because of the high number of incidents. What do you want to bet he didn't inform his carrier that he has a pit bull that he allows to run loose in the neighborhood?
Posted 7:51 PM, 11.17.09
user lacrosse02 says...
thank you belovedcartoonmouse for further elaborating. before concernedcitizen27 begins making judgements they should have their facts safe. in addition, ofc wilson will be treated like a normal citizen in this circumstance. it is funny tho, that if a citizen was in danger in howard co, and ofc wilson was present, would you not want him to stand in as a police officer? because that is what he is suppose to do if he witnessed something
Posted 8:03 PM, 11.17.09
user brog1199 says...
To all of you that feel that the owner of the dog was a "less than perfect citizen" you are looking at the record of the wrong man. The owner is a college student in his early twenties. The incident occurred on a Saturday afternoon (around 2pm) with neighbors outside. As for the previous "attack" it was an isolated incident that led to no trauma or injury. Not one of you knows the details of what led up to this event nor to the event that took place on the 7th that led to Brody's death; you are commenting purely out of speculation. The only reason that any of you have commented at all is because the article describes Brody as a "pitt bull mix"; if he were a Bloodhound or a German Shepherd then not only would you not feel the way that you do but he wouldn't have been shot in the first place. This is an example of blatant discrimination based upon misinformation. What the article doesn't say is that the officer did not have control of his dogs at the time and that they were on the Obermaiers' property. The author does not explain that Brody was being led back into the house when shots were fired. This officer fired three shots toward a home on a Saturday afternoon when there were people near the dog that could have been harmed as well. Firing a weapon should never be the first response to a situation like this and as a police officer he has been trained as to what other steps should be taken before his weapon is drawn. It is alarming that his judgment was so poor as to act in this manner. The article also does not address the fact that as an off duty officer walking his dogs in his neighborhood he would not have been immediately recognizable as a police officer. At no time prior to the shooting did he identify himself nor attempt to communicate any of his concerns with the other people standing standing near the dog. I do not feel comfortable living in a neighborhood where the policy is to shoot first and ask questions later; Is this what you want?
Posted 8:57 PM, 11.17.09
user country65 says...
Concernedcitizen27 before you go spouting off about the officer being charged based on what you believe is the law you should research the law a little better. The state of Maryland says that as long as your respective jurisdiction allows you to do so you are in fact permitted to carry your firearm anywhere in the state of Maryland on or off duty. In addition after 911 a bill was passed in Congress (HR218) that allows any sworn Law Enforcement Officer current and retired to carry a firearm anywhere in the United States of America. Just stating the law as I know it. People like yourself who are quick to judge police whenever they use their gun are usually the same ones who don't have enough guts to strap on a gun, pin on a badge and go out there and try to do what has become a very difficult job where you are forced to make life or death decisions in a split second. Did the officer do the right thing ? I dont know I wasnt there and unless you were you you shouldnt be so quick to judge.
Posted 9:20 PM, 11.17.09
user eric says...
So what if the owner had and kind of criminal record. Does that justify the death of his dog? Once again a trigger happy cop has needlessly ended the life of one of howard county's pets. Lets not forget this is not the first time one of these fools has overreacted. My symapthies are with the Obermaiers. I doubt the officer and his wife's life were truly in danger. One word - KARMA.
Posted 9:21 PM, 11.17.09
user smiledoc says...
It does not matter if the police officer works in Baltimore. As long as it's a jurisdiction in Maryland he should always carry a gun. As for the dog, Pit Bulls have a long history of being mean and attacking other dogs and people. They have caused severe lifelong injuries to children. The owner should have been arrested for not having the dog properly restrained. The breed should be banned and the more of them that get shot the better.
Posted 9:40 PM, 11.17.09
user regularjoe000 says...
The article clearly says the dog ran out of the house so for all those complaining about leash laws thats not the point. The fact that the Mr Wilson was carrying a gun also not the point. If they were being attacked they would at least have scratches on them it would be in the police report and this article would have never been written. Mr. Wilson is trigger happy, even if he felt threatened walking his two LARGE dogs it is unnecessary. If someone "felt threatened" and shot and killed his dogs in his yard i assure you there would be charges filed. Sorry to here about your loss.
Posted 9:56 PM, 11.17.09
user says...
country65, Deadly force may only be used where the threatened force will cause death or great bodily harm according to CJS. That is the standard for any private citizen, including Mr Wilson. Discharging a firearm, no matter if it is towards a person or animal is considered use of deadly force. And I am quite convinced a dog running will fail that test for its use. What disturbs me if that we are treating Mr What I am judging is the moral decay of our polilce and the FOP they hide behind. This is the 5th incident this year involving police officers shooting dogs in Maryland. One was the mayor of Takoma Park's house, two, in Howard County, occured while police were executing what were later proved to be defective warrants. One was a police dog that was fragged by BCPD, and this incident, where the officer wasn't even on duty or in his jurisdiction. We've seen police officers off-duty actually commit acts of kidnapping as occured twice last year in Patapsco State Park and Towson/Parkville. An Anne Arudel County police officer involved in a hit and run death of a pedestrian on I-95, and the Harford County Sheriff violating state law by not releasing the officer's name (all persons booked into state custody are a matter of public record). As for the FOP, when the Maryland General Assembly pursued legislation requiring SWAT teams to report on their activities to ensure citizens rights are protected, the FOP cried foul and turned their lobbying machine into high gear. When Montgomery County Police officers were caught driving through red light/speed camars sticking up their middle fingers, it was the FOP who claimed the County should pay the fines, that police were exempt from traffic laws. For the record, and my previous comments support this, I believe in a community of law and order. I belive in giving our police all the tools they need to keep our streets safe. But I also believe we are right, as citizens, to demand the highest standards in return. When law abiding citizens cannot be secure in their possessions, or the cherished pets, from agents of the state, those whom we are supposed to be able to trust, we are all victims. And we are just in demanding recourse. As for your personal attacks against me, you know nothing about me or my service. I proudly wore my nations uniform as a military member for 8 years. I lived my life by the Cadet Honor Code "I will not lie, cheat, or steal, nor tolerate anyone who does." On the contrary, I believe there is a sickening number police officers lack the moral fortitude to live as a military member. I suggest we need more police who, instead of hiding behind the FOP, will heed the words of Gen Douglass MacArthur, Duty, Honor, Country. There was no honor in shooting this dog, there was no duty carried out.
Posted 10:15 PM, 11.17.09
user christina555 says...
This article fails to mention that Brody was in his yard during this incident and the officer's dogs were on the Obermaier's property and off of their leashes. It also fails to mention that Wilson shot Brody three times. Shooting the dog three times was overkill and shooting it through an internal organ to ensure the dog's death was sick and unwarranted. Citizens should be outraged. We are friends of the Obermaier family and our puppy played with Brody numerous times before this tragic accident. He was the sweetest dog who had no history of violence. I hope that the truth comes out. The fact that the Obermaiers were told that Brody was "just a dog" shows how little empathy these officers have, as any dog owner knows that losing a dog is like losing a part of your family. How sad that the Obermaiers had a part of their family murdered for no good reason. RIP Brody.
Posted 10:34 PM, 11.17.09
user brog1199 says...
to all that have commented (especially smiledoc) check out these sites: http://hubpages.com/hub/Famous_Pit_Bulls http://www.austinlostpets.com/kidskorner/2October/pitbull.htm http://www.pet-abuse.com/pages/cruelty_database/results.php?us_state=&ca_state=&uk_state=&nz_state=&au_state=&es_state=&animal_id[]=17&status=c&month=&year=&gender=&public_serv=1&keyword=&search=search http://www.pet-abuse.com/pages/cruelty_database/results.php?us_state=&ca_state=&uk_state=&nz_state=&au_state=&es_state=&type_id[]=6&animal_id[]=17&status=&month=&year=&gender=&public_serv=1&keyword=&search=search
Posted 10:37 PM, 11.17.09
user brog1199 says...
Sorry about that last post; I spaced them out and assumed they would show as actual links and not as they appear.
Posted 10:40 PM, 11.17.09
user country65 says...
User, first off I need not be reminded when and where deadly force can be used. I am recently retired from the career in question after 20 years of service to the citizens of Maryland. Judging from what you wrote you didnt read my posting very carefully. I made very clear that I dont know if the officer was right or wrong because I wasnt there. My post was directed at the fact that you attempted to quote the law and were very obviously wrong in regards to what you were saying. In addition closed minded liberals like yourself need to stop believing everthing you read in the paper and see on the news. They only report the side of the story that will draw the most interest. There are 2 sides to every story. Again if you werent there dont judge him. I cant be any clearer than that. As far as as a running dog "failing the test" well you're wrong again. Try telling that to the parents of the child I personally saved from a pit bull attack, the child sustained injuries that required 2 surgeries and over 100 stitches/staples. As far as the "Code of Honor", tell that to the victims of Ft Hood.
Posted 10:40 PM, 11.17.09
user hockeymom says...
I know this couple. One of their dogs has puncture wounds on it's neck. The dog was going after his wife and the dogs were not being led away at the time of the shooting. I am sure that some of you, who are so quick to judge officer Wilson, would do anything to stop a dog from attacking your dog or family member. I would have found a stick or rock to keep the dog from attacking, even if it wasn't a pit bull mix.
Posted 10:51 PM, 11.17.09
user columbocitizen says...
"I would have found a stick or rock to keep the dog from attacking." Absolutely correct. A gun was not needed in this incident. Officer Wilson's excessive force on the animal led a very unfortunate ending. My animals are a part of my family and I would be devastated to lose one in such a tragic way. The owner's criminal history is irrelevant and since when was it okay to hold judgments against people that you do not know? You are calling these people "less than perfect citizens" when you yourself is perhaps doing more of an injustice by passing judgment on your fellow citizens. According to previous post, the animal was shot and killed on its very own property. If this is okay, our justice system needs to have a wake-up call. I'm incredibly sorry for the family's loss and I hope that they eventually will find peace.
Posted 11:06 PM, 11.17.09
user nma123 says...
Smiledoc - people like you aggravate the &*$% out of me. I have a pit bull mix that is the most loving dog in the world and most pits are...the statistics are skewed and many dog attacks that occur are classified as pit bulls, when in fact, they aren't so! I empathize for the family of Brody and offer my sincere sympathies for your loss. My baby is a member of the family, just as I am sure Brody was to you. Smiledoc, you need to educate yourself on the breed - did you know they were originally bred to watch over children? Pit bulls can be made to be mean, but so can any dog, so until you experience the loyalty and the love that a pit bull can bring to you, you have absolutely no right to make comments as you did. It infuriates me to no end that people like yourself are so naive and quick to judge. RIP Brody and as one person said about the officer - KARMA, what comes around usually goes around!
Posted 11:13 PM, 11.17.09
user brog1199 says...
To hockeymom: If you do in fact know this couple then I would advise you to ask the woman about her statements to the police. You'll find that her statement contradicted her husband's (the officer) account. She told the investigators that she did not feel threatened and furthermore her dogs were not injured in this incident. Any wounds that her animal has did not come from this event, even the Howard County police investigation of this crime acknowledges this.
Posted 11:13 PM, 11.17.09
user country65 says...
A rock or stick against a pitbull ? You're kidding right ?
Posted 11:14 PM, 11.17.09
user nma123 says...
Brog1199 - Thank you for the sites you have posted. Hopefully those with pre-conceived notions will do a little research before being so quick to judge.
Posted 11:17 PM, 11.17.09
user brog1199 says...
Thank you for your post as well. This incident is merely one of thousands and something needs to change. The law enables people to believe myths about the aggressive nature of some dogs. The law should not allow for discrimination of any kind (apartment restrictions on breed types, counties banning ownership of certain breeds, etc.). Just as with people we cannot base our opinions on just the type of breed that a dog may be. There are many incidents where people and other animals are injured by dogs that are thought to be loving family pets (anywhere from Beagles and Pomeranians to Cocker Spaniels and Retrievers). If we, as people, feel that it is wrong to discriminate against people by their skin color or country of origin then we should also feel that it is wrong to discriminate against any pet in the same manner. It is common sense to realize that a dog will behave as his owners have raised him to. These are intelligent, emotional and compassionate animals that have been brought into our homes for many many years and it should be understood that, no matter what breed, the dog will respond to the owner's training, love and affection. Pitts are one of the smartest and emotional responsive breeds out there. Most people would be surprised to learn that according to the National Canine Temperament Testing Association, Pit Bulls came in 4th highest with a passing rate of 95 percent.
Posted 11:33 PM, 11.17.09
user dccop58 says...
OFF DUTY POLICE OFFICERS CAN LAWFULLY CARRY THEIR SERVICE WEAPONS OFF DUTY AND EVEN CROSS STATE LINES. HR 218 ACCOMPLISHED THIS IN THE NAME OF HOMELAND SECURITY A COUPLE OF YEARS AFTER 9/11. ALSO, IN DC, THE SHOOTING OF AN AGGRESSIVE DOG WOULD OF COURSE BE INVESTIGATED BY INTERAL AFFAIRS BUT IS NOT CONSIDERED THE USE OF DEADLY FORCE. IT'S LIKELY THE SAME IN HOWARD COUNTY. OFC. WILSON IS CLEARLY A DOG LOVER, AS HE OWNS TWO OF HIS OWN. I ALSO OWN TWO DOGS. I'D FEEL TERRIBLE IF I HAD TO SHOOT A DOG BUT I WOULDN'T HESITATE IF THAT DOG WAS THREATENING VIOLENCE ON A HUMAN (ANY HUMAN). IT WOULD BE NICE F FOLKS KNEW WHAT THEY WERE TALKING ABOUT BEFORE RUNNING OFF SOUNDING LIKE FOOLS.
Posted 3:27 AM, 11.18.09
user christina555 says...
Hockeymom, go ahead and read a copy of the police report and then tell us if your friend said she felt threatened. And if we're going to go ahead and make unnecessary judgments on the people involved, then let me throw a future prediction out there - any one who could do this to a dog for no reason could clearly do it to another person or his wife. I'd be worried if this person lived in my neighborhood. Unnecessary right? Then make your comments about the case and not make character judgments on people who you do not know.
Posted 7:33 AM, 11.18.09
user independent says...
It's ill advised for anyone approaching an off-leash dog to scream or behave with any sort of instability. All dogs should be leashed or restrained if they can let themselves out of the house, and when encountering an off-lease dog, never panic, don't scream and don't start shooting. "Snook said the shooting could have been avoided. “His (the officer’s) wife started screaming,†she said. “As I walked up to grab him the guy pulls out his gun and shoots him twice.†Snook said Brody did not lunge at the officer’s wife."
Posted 7:53 AM, 11.18.09
user asdfgh says...
some of you people are crazy. do you really think Officer Wilson went out for a walk with his wife and dog and just saw another dog and decided to shoot it? Are you serious? He obviously felt threatened by the dog. "any one who could do this to a dog for no reason could clearly do it to another person or his wife." well, clearly he had a reason - he didn't just unload on this dog for no reason. And the comparison is garbage; a dog is not a person. You can't ask a dog to stop threatening you.
Posted 7:58 AM, 11.18.09
user country65 says...
asdfgh, I couldnt have said it better myself...........Thank you
Posted 8:56 AM, 11.18.09
user brog1199 says...
To asdfgh: First of all it is not productive in any way to begin your post with an insult. The article does not portray an accurate account of what happened. Crucial details are missing and the reason for this is that the case is not closed; the investigation is ongoing. Your comments are simple and do not address the real point that could be made here. You assume the animal was threatening based on disputed details given to a reporter that chose to inaccurately portray the emotions of those involved. There were more witnesses and people outside not mentioned by the reporter. Anger was present only after it was relayed by witnesses (including the officers' wife) that the dog was not threatening in anyway (he was turned to go back into the house, not even near the officer or his wife). All that we can hope is that the investigation is objective. Furthermore, in your post you have chosen to comment on the mind of the officer at the time of the incident. However, his statements have not been made public nor did he contribute to the article in any manner. It is surprising then that you would be so naive as to assume that you could know his state of mind or what his thoughts or mood on this particular day. Open your eyes and your mind and realize that there are civil servants that break the law, misjudge a situation or harm innocent beings.
Posted 9:46 AM, 11.18.09
user asdfgh says...
"You assume the animal was threatening..." yes, I don't think it's a stretch to assume that the Officer felt threatened by the pit bull. Again, he's just out for a walk with his wife and own dog, why else would he shoot a random neighborhood dog that's playing the yard? Also, your statement that the dog was turned away to go back into the house is also not clear, so don't go portraying that as fact. I realize that civil servants can misjudge a situation; that happens every day. The fact of the matter is, there has to be a reason he shot this pit bull - it was attacking his dog and wife and he felt threatened.
Posted 10:18 AM, 11.18.09
user says...
The ONLY relevant question is the following: "Did the shooter have a reasonable belief that his dogs or his wife were in danger of serious or deadly injury?" That is it. If his belief was reasonable, then his shooting was justified. If the belief was unreasonable or he didn't actually have such a belief, then it was not. End of discussion. I suggest that you stick to analyzing evidence that either supports the reasonableness of such a belief or attacks the reasonableness of such a belief. For example: Evidence that seems to support the reasonableness of such a belief: 1) The dog was a Pit Bull. 2) Pit bull have a reputation for attacking people and other dogs. (Note: Whether this reputation is accurate or not, that is the commonly held notion. As such it would make it more reasonable for a person to believe that a pit bull was a threat. 3) The dog was not on a leash. 4) The shooter will testify that he perceived the dog attacking his dogs. (The judge/jury would have to decide how believable the testimony is.) 5) His wife started screaming. 6) The shooter will testify that he perceived the dog as attacking his wife. (The judge/jury would have to decide how believable the testimony is.) Evidence that seems to attack the reasonableness of such a belief: 1) A friend of the dog owner will testify that the pit bull was playing with the other dopgs and not attacking or behaving ina threatening manner. (The judge/jury would have to decide how believable the testimony is.) Evidence that has NO BEARING on the reasonableness of the shooter's belief: 1) The dog has been reported before for attacking another dog. (Unless the shooter knew this at the time of the shooting, then it has no impact on what he believed at the time of the shooting. The evidence may be allowed in for some other purpose such as to dispute testimony from the owner, but it is irrelevant to the "reasonable belief" question.) 2) The owner will testify thet teh dog was "a nice dog that never attacked anyone." Even if the shooter knew this at the time, it has no relevancy on what the shooter thought at the time of the shooting. In fact, if anything, it would be argued that if the shooter knew the dog to be friendly, then it would be even HARDER for the shooter to think there was danger. I am sure there are more documented and hypothesized facts you can toss into these categories. So when you read statements like the following, please realize that NOTHING that is said in it is either relevent or even closely related to how our justice system works: "The issue is that we have a Baltimore City Police officer, with the powers to make arrests and impose deadly force, so depraved as to shoot a dog in a neighborhood. This fetish police officers have of late with shhoting dogs is inexcusable. BCPD even shot one of their own dogs last week. An Mr. Wilson should not be treated as a police officer when he is in Howard County. He should be held to the same standard as a private citizen. And that standard calls for criminal charges." Let's break that down: "The issue is that we have a Baltimore City Police officer..." This is irrelevant unless you can show that as a police officer, this person has been exposed to statistical data or other experiential data about pit bulls or dog attacks in general. Such exposure might be relevent to his beliefs at the time. Note that that exposure might support his belief or it might attack it depending on what his exposure has been. "...with the powers to make arrests and impose deadly force,..." Irrelevant. "...so depraved as to shoot a dog..." This assumes the conclusion that you are arguing here. We don't know know if a reasonable person would have had to have been "depraved" to shoot the dog in this situation without examining the relevant evidence. This statement is inflamatory and assumes your conclusion. " in a neighborhood." Unless you can show that a reasonable person would somehow know that dogs never atatck an maul people in neighborhoods, I am going to say that this info is either irrelevant or supports the police officer. (I say that since I am going to guess that the vast majority of dog attacks occur in neighborhoods.) In any event, the location of the incident really has little to no relevancy to his beliefs re: the threat. "This fetish police officers have of late with shhoting dogs..." Again, assumes that the motive was a fetish instead of a reasonable belief of a threat. It also generalizes the case to say it is just like every other rpeort. Each case has its own set fo facts. Examine teh facts in THIS case please. "is inexcusable." Presumes your conclusion. It may or may not be excusable based on teh analysis that must be done. "BCPD even shot one of their own dogs last week." Irrelevant to this case. "An Mr. Wilson should not be treated as a police officer when he is in Howard County. He should be held to the same standard as a private citizen." He is being treated as a private citizen. "And that standard calls for criminal charges." Uhm...what? You DO know that in order for a prosecuting attorney to charge someone they have to have a reasonable belief that the facts support their charges, right? You don't just charge someone if they shoot someone or some animal. You gather facts, analyze them and make a prosecutorial decision on whether charges are warranted. You would want the same if you or your child or loved one was being attacked by a pet and you ahd to kill the pet. I don't know what all the evidence will be but I know that analyzing the relevant evidence under the statutes on the books is the only proper way to decide if a crime was committed. Stop flailing your arms and screaming about this and do some reasonable analysis. BCPD even shot one of their own dogs last week. An Mr. Wilson should not be treated as a police officer when he is in Howard County. He should be held to the same standard as a private citizen. And that standard calls for criminal charges. This fetish police officers have of late with shhoting dogs is inexcusable. BCPD even shot one of their own dogs last week. An Mr. Wilson should not be treated as a police officer when he is in Howard County. He should be held to the same standard as a private citizen. And that standard calls for criminal charges.
Posted 10:37 AM, 11.18.09
user lacrosse02 says...
it is rather rediculous that some of you people think that ofc wilson decided on the day in question that ofc wilson thought he would walk his dog with his wife and just decide to shoot a dog for the heck of it. this isn't the first time this has happend. the bottom line is did the officer perceive the dog as a threat to himself or his wife at the time of the shooting, not what supposed witneses feel. and whoever compares this to the search warrant of the town mayors home is completely wrong. that wasn't an issue about shooting the dogs, but the validity of the search warrant and pre-raid intelligence. no one wants to see a dog get killed, but i wonder how those of you that are so quick to judge, would do in the same situation, appearently we are suppose to just pick up that stick off the ground that will sure to be right on the ground next to us when wer're getting attacked by a vicious animal, come on!and people complain that he shouldnt be treated any different because he is an officer, well that is impossible to do, obviously by the attention given and the amount posts just to this article, the officer is going to be treated differently, whether it be positive or negative.
Posted 11:07 AM, 11.18.09
user christina555 says...
Everyone seems to love the point out that the dog was not on a leash, which is true, but the officer's dogs were also not on leashes and were on the Obermaier's property. That seems to me an even bigger issue than Brody being off of his leash. I consider that trespassing, regardless of what the law says.
Posted 11:35 AM, 11.18.09
user christina555 says...
and asdfgh, you took my comment out of context and that was ignorant. Do not go on here and tell people that they are crazy because frankly, I think you're an idiot. If someone shot your dog for no good reason, I hope you'd be satisfied with your comment that "a dog is not a person."
Posted 11:38 AM, 11.18.09
user christina555 says...
In reference to my other posting, apparently the officer's dogs were on leashes. That was my mistake; sorry for the confusion.
Posted 11:41 AM, 11.18.09
user asdfgh says...
I'm sorry, are we living in Bizarro World where dogs are people? I know we all love dogs, but they. are. not. people. You cannot reason with a dog or ask it to stop attacking/threatening you.
Posted 11:59 AM, 11.18.09
user jackdawkins says...
Please do not listen to all the BS the dog's owners and their friends are putting out there. This was an aggressive dog that had attacked another neighbor's dog in the past (a report was filed with HoCo police). The dog was outside, unsupervised and off leash. The only eye witnesses were the off-duty officer and his wife because no one came out of the owner's home until after the shots were fired. The officer's dogs were both on leash (as they always are). The owners can claim "but he was on our property" all they want - it's a townhouse community and the dog was in their small front yard, which fronts the neighborhood sidewalk. I can understand the sadness and anger of the dog's owners, but it's misplaced. They should be angry with themselves for letting this happen. They failed their dog and put the community at risk. Imagine how this story could have turned out if the officer wasn't armed that day, or if it was someone less capable of defending himself and his family. I thank god that it wasn't my wife, walking our dog alone.
Posted 12:08 PM, 11.18.09
user asdfgh says...
christina - so I can't call people crazy but you can call me an idiot? classy.
Posted 12:09 PM, 11.18.09
user christina555 says...
asdfgh, sorry about that - it was rude. I was with the owner when he found out what had happened and it was a very hard day. We are all still angry and upset and know in our hearts that Brody was not the dog this story and these comments make him out to be. I feel people are making assumptions without knowing the real story and making this police officer out to be some kind of hero or victim when, truthfully, we feel his actions were unnecessary (as we were even told by the vet that shooting him three times was meant to kill the dog [which it didn't and he suffered]; 1 shot would have easilly taken the dog down). I hope that everyone can be open-minded (as most of you really do not know what happened and are strictly making rash assumptions) and that the truth will come out. I hope the Obermaier family can find peace and everyone can learn something from this.
Posted 2:40 PM, 11.18.09
user abd123 says...
Christina it was not three shots it was 2. The police report, Howard County, and Baltimore City all concur. I am a resident of that neighborhood. I know both the Obermaiers and the Wilsons. The events that took place were tragic and horrible for both families involved. Young Mr. Obermaier’s police record is irrelevant to whether or not he was a responsible dog owner. Mrs. Wilson screaming may or may not have been the appropriate thing to do but, just maybe we could believe for a second that she was scared, not a far stretch. I know for a fact that the Wilson’s did not consider Brody “just a dogâ€. The Wilson's are animal lovers. Vicious, aggressive, or not they realize that this animal was loved by its owners and recognize their loss. This neighborhood is a nice and otherwise peaceful place to live. If you (meaning everyone that posts) want to continue using this forum as a medium to intelligently discuss issues that is all well and good but, to needlessly and intentionally spread hate is not helpful to either family as they both move forward and allow a community to heal. And I agree Christina let's ALL learn from this
Posted 3:14 PM, 11.18.09
user please says...
The number of shots is irrelevant, a gun is not a magic wand, there is no way to tell after you've fired one shot that it was sufficient. Is the person defending himself supposed to pull out a stethoscope and take vital signs after each shot? No. You shoot until the job is done. But we're supposed to stand there and offer ourselves up as victims in every situation, even inside of our own homes, until that moment where a jury would find us innocent and properly excused from defending ourselves, a moment which none of us has the nerve to postpone.
Posted 4:46 PM, 11.18.09
user hococoncernedcitizen says...
Why were officer Wilson's dogs in Brody's yard? I'm not sure I've read that anywhere. So, if the Obermaiers shot Wilson's dogs would we be having the same discussions?? I really feel that the shooting of this dog two or three times, whichever it was, is unnecessary. Cop or not, no one has the right to allow their pets to invade another animals space and then shoot the dog who was on his own property! Did the officer or his wife try exiting the situation with their dogs, did they try to grab a stick, yell for help, anything?? It seems that the officer was wired to grab, point and shoot. What if I had startled him or his wife, would I be dead today? Would the Howard County Police Department be telling my children, friends and family-- that I was just one person?
Posted 5:01 PM, 11.18.09
user jackdawkins says...
@ hococoncernedcitizen: I can't answer for Officer Wilson, but if I was walking my dog and you came charging out of your house at me, and attacked my dog, and appeared to threaten my family's safety, yes, I would have shot you. A large, powerful dog (no matter the breed), that charges you, is the same as someone running at you with a knife - at that point, a use of force is reasonable and it's their responsiblity to make clear that they are not a threat. Under Maryland law, the owners had prior warning that this dog was capable of violence when it attacked another dog. From then on, it's their responsibility to protect it, and others, from harm.
Posted 5:14 PM, 11.18.09
user toasteroven says...
If a dog attacks me, my dogs, or my wife, it will be shot. There is simply no argument. Dogs are required to be on a leash, and if the dog "escapes" from the house, that's no excuse. Install an electric fence. Human safety comes waaay before dogs.
Posted 5:39 PM, 11.18.09
user dkane417 says...
I don't believe this article addresses the true issues and this situation deserves more than a quick glance at a handful of disputed facts and opinions. The vet can confirm that the dog was shot three times. Once in the a** (left glut) and two shots closely clustered in the dogs underside/chest (left pectoral). This seams consistent with the report that the dog was shot while heading back towards the house. And unless the dog was standing on his hind legs it would appear Mr Wilson delivered the two deadly shots while Brody was lying on the ground. I'd like to see a more complete and Objective article. Mr. Wilsons comments? How would the regular Joe with a hand gun permit have been treated by the Howard County police on scene in this situation? Trial started yesterday for Essex Police officer Michael Wooton charged with animal cruelty for shooting a neighbor's dog while off duty. Are animal cruelty charges even being investigated in this case and by who? At the end of the day I would like to see this resolved in a just and moral manner.
Posted 5:41 PM, 11.18.09
user lacrosse02 says...
appearently some people can do an autopsy just from what they hear and determine a bullets point of entry and trajectory. lol, people are rediculous. and for people to think that howard co police are going to cover for this officer is just down right stupid. at this point an officer is not going to risk his job to cover for another. not only is ofc wilson going to be judged criminally but also internally through his department. its funny how people are so quick to bash the police, until they need them in an emergency.
Posted 7:11 PM, 11.18.09
user rncyndi says...
to user jackdawkins: I have read all of the comments from everyone and yours is the only one so far I feel compelled to respond to. You, my dear, have no clue what you are talking about! I am one of the principles in this case and we are spinning no BS. There was someone outside with Brody, someone who was trying to intervene. Brody had gotten out before and there was a police report and I stood in the same room with the officer who wrote the report and he said he could see Brody was not mean or aggressive. If the officer had not been armed that day or it had been any other citizen, Brody would be alive and life would have gone on as usual. Officer Wilson altered all our lives and as others have said-what goes, around comes around. If anyone is really interested in the facts as they happened that day, please feel free to speak to any of the eyewitnesses not just someone who is hiding behind his badge to act so carelessly. Even his wife knows the truth, whether she will speak or not is another matter.
Posted 9:42 PM, 11.18.09
user klaxo says...
Seems to me with all this talk about leashes and aggressive dogs, many comments here seem to miss the point. The off-duty officer's dogs came onto the property to meet Brody. Brody never left the property or attacked anyone. Whether or not the off-duty officer actually felt threatened by Brody, I cannot speculate. But the officer came onto the property and shot Brody multiple times while Amanda was leading him away as she attempted to diffuse the situation.
Posted 10:53 PM, 11.18.09
user eric says...
I dont know either of the families involved but I want to express my deepest sympathies to everyone who knew Brody. Im sure he was a great dog and was loved by everyone. Its just such a shame that this had to happen. People who dont have dogs dont understand how much a part of the family they become. RIP BRODY
Posted 1:43 AM, 11.19.09
user mikewall says...
Kudos to klaxo - whether the cop had a right to carry his weapon is besides the point - i might have the right to carry a gun but that doesn't give me the right to murder someone! the cop seems to have absolutely no excuse for killing this dog. the criminal history or lack thereof of the owners is likewise irrelevant. all those who defend the cop - how would u feel if it was your child who was murdered? get a grip!
Posted 11:57 AM, 11.19.09
user darlaspug says...
This is for concernedcitizen27 who thinks the Baltimore City officer should be seen as a citizen in Howard County and not acting as an Officer. Would be interested to know if you were being robbed or carjacked in his presence if you would like him to use his service revolver or just stand there as a citizen. The dog should be leashed or detained in the owner's yard. The end. I'm an animal advocate and walk Pit Bulls for the Humane Society weekly, so the love of the breed has nothing to do with it - if it were a German Shepherd or Doberman or a Poodle - the same rules apply - leash laws apply - don't let your dog have the ability to run unsupervised. If it had been your child in harm's way and the officer didn't react - you'd sue him.
Posted 1:51 PM, 11.19.09
user citizentaxpayerjane says...
Darla, the Humane Society is an extremist organization that would rather euthanize dogs than adopt them to farms. Your "service" does nothing for credibility regarding what dog should be killed and what dog your highness would allow to live. Talk about a God complex.
Posted 2:24 PM, 11.19.09
user user1234 says...
Just a quick note to those of you who seem to have forgotten....IT'S A DOG...not a person! Enough talk about murder, and what if it was a member of your family, thats just ridiculous.
Posted 4:46 PM, 11.19.09
user hococoncernedcitizen says...
To JackDawskins: Seriously?? If I came running out of my front door and you were on the sidewalk you would enter my yard and "defend" yourself from me? I can't take you seriously. You are so bent on believing what you want to believe that you actually posted that you would come at me on my own property if I were running in my yard, because, after all, that was my question. Best of luck to you in life, it seems you will need it.
Posted 5:54 PM, 11.19.09
user klaxo says...
Well it is quite obvious by your comment, user1234, that you have never had a dog in your family. Brody, he, a living being just as you and I, was killed. Murder is a term which usually refers to a person killing another person, and if that is the point you are trying to make, you are correct. However, I think the idea of murder was brought up to point out the fact that sadly, it seems that a person can kill anything but another person and it's not so bad -- even okay! Some of us without the blessing of having a dog as a member of our family suddenly only relate to the human being in the situation. Brody was not just a member of a loving family, he was a member of this community just as you and I.
Posted 6:05 PM, 11.19.09
user says...
Dear Darla: I am unable to follow the logic of your recent response. Lets see 1) Uphold a sworn duty to protect and serve a citizen being robed or carjacked; OR 2) Act in an overly aggressive and violent meaner than hide behind your badge and give false statements to avoid any concequences. It was reasonable for Mrs Wilson to scream when startled by Brody. Mr Wilson on the other hand has been trained to recognize a threatening situation, than to calmly defuse the situation by LEAST violent means necessary. Instead Mr Wilson's immediate response was to draw his firearm and start shooting. for the last year my dog regularly played with Brody. Never once did Brody show any signs of aggression. I cant help but recall one of the first times Brody and Sampson met. Brody was chewing a raw hide in the middle of the floor while Sampson tugged on the his skin. A few moments later Sampson lifted his leg peed on Brody's head and walked off with the rawhide. Never has Brody ever been possessive or even reacted aggressively when other dogs acted overly aggressively toward him. RIP Brody Dear USER1234: I hope one day your see through your ignorance and that you are able to know the unconditional love, affection, and companionship a dog provides as a part of your family. Mahatma Gandhi once said: "One can measure the greatness and the moral progress of a nation by looking at how it treats its animals."
Posted 6:10 PM, 11.19.09
user jeffinbaltimore says...
So I just wanted to post something short and sweet about everyone in the statements above... For those who knew brody and loved him like i did, he will be missed but he will live on in our hearts!! For those of you who are siding on the law/officer, i don't care what laws are or aren't being broken... he is in my book a very ignorant person and he doesn't know or care how to be a normal caring understanding person...! I mean sure i have had dogs in the past and I hate when they run loose and out of my control... but i don't think I could ever pull point and shoot a gun (3 times) at any kind of animal or even person... there are other tactics he could have used there instead of deadly force... 1. restraining the dog by hand and screaming for the owners... 2. requesting help from any other parties within ear shot... 3. assaulting the dog in question with any other means to distract him... I mean I know for a fact that brody loved a good game fetch... so yes a stick might have worked for those who questioned this before... I think this was a personal matter that the officer had against either the family or the dog... I mean why else would this matter still go unsolved!!!! there sure is a matter of due process and that all the i's have to dotted and all the t's have to be crossed... but if this was a simple matter I think by now we as friends and families would have heard high wind of the matter being resolved! boo on you off duty officer who killed a loving member of my extended family!
Posted 8:44 PM, 11.19.09
user equine says...
I am sure that Officer Wilson will not be punished by Howard County or by his conscience because he does not have one. If Brody was a serial killer he would have more rights! Rest in peace Brody! Shame on you Officer Wilson for killing an innocent dog!
Posted 9:38 PM, 11.19.09
user user1234 says...
Klaxo and User....if you're done assuming, I actually own 2 dogs. I have always had a dog in my household, and it will probally always be that way. I do not/will not ever value their lives over those of other human beings. I also wont ever liken the shooting of an animal to that of the murder of a family member/other human being. That is all.
Posted 10:11 PM, 11.19.09
user klaxo says...
Well user1234, my assumption (as you put it, or I can literally quote you on it) was that you have never had a dog as a part of your family. Not that you don't happen to have them ("its" as you referred to them) in your household. But this is irrelevant. The point is not that a dog's life is valued higher than a human being's. I don't think anyone sees it this way. But personally, I value my dog's life on the same level, as equals. Coexistence. Love.
Posted 10:32 PM, 11.19.09
user user1234 says...
Klaxo....I truly dont know what it is that you are reading, i did not state that ive never had a dog as a part of my family. In my original post i was speaking about how other posts were relating this to a murder, or to the killing of a human that was part of a family. If there is any futher confusion feel free to ask for clarification.
Posted 11:25 PM, 11.19.09
user independent says...
"One can measure the greatness and the moral progress of a nation by looking at how it treats its animals." - Ghandi quote from User above really says it all.
Posted 6:30 AM, 11.20.09
user designs247 says...
TO ALL HOWARD COUNTY HOME & DOG OWNERS: FOLLOW THE LEACH LAW. IF YOU CHOOSE THE NOT FOLLOW THE LAW, THIS COULD BE THE RESULTS!
Posted 6:51 AM, 11.20.09
user hococoncernedcitizen says...
There is no leash law when it comes to a pet being on his own property. So many of you have missed the point...Brody was in HIS family's yard when the officer's dogs entered Brody's family's property. They should have been removed, period. If I entered someone's yard and they took defensive measures against me (not that I believe that is what Brody did) and I shot you for defending your proprety I would be charged with murder. Even if Brody defended his family's property, he had a right to do so. However, from all accounts of the situation (except for that of officer Wilson), Brody was simply engaging in play with the other dogs. Big dogs playing together can often be mistaken for aggressive behavior if you do not know dogs well. They jump and growl, and, yes, even bite one another, but they never harm each other. I can certainly understand why Mrs. Wilson may have been alarmed or even screamed. That is just how big dogs play. Bottom line is Brody did not deserve to be killed on his own land because of someone (or something) else entering his yard. I support my local police whole heartedly. However, believing that Officer Wilson was within his right to shoot the dog is extremely disappointing to me. I have lived in this county for over 20 years. I will not forget this!
Posted 9:53 AM, 11.20.09
user hococoncernedcitizen says...
Many other citizens feel the same way. In fact, there is a petition going around in support of the Obermaiers. As a community we want to make sure that there is some justice for this dog and his family. This is unacceptable that an officer shot into someone's yard 2-3 times on a Saturday afternoon. Anyone of the family members in the yard that day or any other neighbor could have been seriously injured or killed.
Posted 9:56 AM, 11.20.09
user citizentaxpayerjane says...
The dead dog might have been contained in an electric fence when the officer's dogs went into their yard. And people are still saying the dog needed a leash in his own yard? There is a law that bans tying up your dog outside - Designs247.
Posted 9:58 AM, 11.20.09
user citizentaxpayerjane says...
And what if the officer's dogs went into the yard of another officer's dog? We'd have a shoot out, I guess. That sounds really safe, let's all just start shooting.
Posted 10:00 AM, 11.20.09
user citizentaxpayerjane says...
Put the petition on www.petitiononline. The Rt 29 people did, and they got 1,230 signatures and a traffic fix post haste.
Posted 10:05 AM, 11.20.09
user bloggerxyz123 says...
I am a friend of the obermaier family and of Brody. I've known Brody for about a year. I have two chihuahuas, one is three pounds, the other seven pounds. Brody has met my dogs on several occassions. My dogs are just fine! He never attacked them in any way. However, he did want to play with them because that was Brody. Full of life and energy. The first time he met my dogs he came running at them, tail wagging, wanting to play. As a dog owner, I am responsible to know about dogs. My dogs are small and nervous and big ole Brody running at them to play freaked them out a bit. However, I saw the wagging tail and I have seen Brody with several other dogs playing. This was just his nature. I simply picked my dogs up and held them while Brody sniffed and licked. All involved were fine!! I have watched him play with dogs from my 3 pounder, a friend's 20 pounder and then there is the husky/lab mix (large breed) dog that he played with on a regular basis. The week before Brody was killed I was at his owner's house for a Halloween party. Lots of people and dogs were in attendance. Brody climbed onto the couch and put his head in my lap and fell asleep. He was a big dog that didn't know he was. He was sweet and gentle, loving and devoted to his master. I wept for days to hear that Brody had met such a tragic end. He DID NOT deserve this. As a member of the community where he was shot and killed I am concerned. I feel the officer could have done so many other things to try to resolve the situation. Many of you are responding to what you think. I knew Brody, I am responding to what I know.
Posted 10:27 AM, 11.20.09
user hococoncernedcitizen says...
Thanks citizentaxpayerjane. I will forward the info and see that it gets posted there.
Posted 10:32 AM, 11.20.09
user alittlesanity says...
This shooting was a terrible and unfortunate incident for the community involved. Hopefully, everyone who is aware of it has learned something and maybe we can prevent something like this from happening in this community again. As with anything, there is always more than one perspective of a single event. I would suggest that all the parties involved (including neighbors) to stop pointing fingers and begin to work on how this can be prevented in the future. We all have to learn to live together in harmony as a "Community." Apparently there were mistakes made on both sides of this incident. (the dog should have been leashed, the Wilson's probably have walked by the house before and were aware of Brody's demeanor and maybe should have elected to walk somewhere else) All hindsignt of course. This incident will be quickly forgotten by the rest of us. But those of you who live in that community, must move ahead and find some peace or it will just tear you further apart and home will not be place where you will want to go.
Posted 12:07 PM, 11.20.09
user givemeabreak says...
CTJ: "And what if the officer's dogs went into the yard of another officer's dog? We'd have a shoot out, I guess. That sounds really safe, let's all just start shooting." That is some funny stuff, lol. most people that become cops are idiots looking to prove something to God knows who, and should not be able to carry firearms and make arrests. it shouldn't surprise anyone when a cop shoots a dog, whether on or off duty, or when the cops raid the wrong house.
Posted 3:52 PM, 11.20.09
user hococoncernedcitizen says...
I agree that something should be learned from this incident. That is why i decided to engage in this forum. I think that the only way for the community to know that something has been learned here is by seeing justice done. At the very least, Officer Wilson should have apologized personally to the Obermaiers whether he felt he was in the right or not. He did kill someone's pet. I would feel terrible, whether it was in self defense or not.
Posted 5:43 PM, 11.20.09
user user1234 says...
givemeabreak- if cops are idiots and shouldnt be able to carry a gun or make arrests, why dont you do yourself and them a favor by not calling them next time you need them.
Posted 5:44 PM, 11.20.09
user commonsenseplease says...
Its sad that this happened and I hope the police/courts will deal with it justly. But wow, huge changes being debated (Downtown Columbia), liberals running amuck (tanning ban, healthy howard) and 83 comments about a dog shooting. I guess the other stuff is too complicated for people.
Posted 6:17 PM, 11.20.09
user equine says...
To commonsenseplease: What is more important than a life! Your comment is just very insensitive and ridiculous!
Posted 6:44 PM, 11.20.09
user lbjhowardcounty says...
This incident is outrageous!! I was so angry when I read this article today, and sobbed for Brody and Mr. Obermaier. First hand, most of Baltimore City Police officers are not properly trained when it comes to Pit Bulls or agressive dogs. They have a jack-boot mentality and should have absolutely diffused this situation. Let me set the record straight---we have a Pit Bull in my family. Ask most GOOD vets, they are very submissive animals and can be so sweet. They love other dogs, Brody was probably trying to make friends. Can't believe this officer killed him...the wife overeacted most likely. My quiestion is why is he carrying his firearm while out for a stroll...this is not Baltimore city...We also have reasonable law inforcement officers in my family...SHAME ON YOU FOR KILLING AN INNOCENT LOVED PET!!!!!!!!!!!!! You should be fined or subjected to more training!!!!!!
Posted 6:53 PM, 11.20.09
user eyekandi09 says...
First I can't believe that people would be bringing up criminal records of people that are not even the owners! Outrageous! Brody is owned by a male in his 20s, which shouldn't even matter! It's the fact that a kind and loving dog (knowing from being around Brody) was shot more than once!!! Coming out of his own home! Why would he be on a leash? And for the officer to have reacted so quickly with his gun, no time for him to even judge whether he needed to use it or not. I'm glad I don't live in his neighborhood!
Posted 7:26 PM, 11.20.09
user lacrosse02 says...
thank you to user1234 for putting givemeabreak in their place. for someone to call most cops idiots, just shows how much of an idiot givemeabreak is. i would suggest if they are so much more qualified then the officers that spend atleast 6 months in an academy, to try to do the job themselves. wait they are prob the cowards who can sit in the comfort of their home, not having to worry if your day at work may result in a gunshot, car accident responding to an emergency, or the many other dangerous tasks an officer does on a daily basis! givemeabreak, have you ever had to wrestle a gun away from a suspect in a dark alley with just yourself there. im guessing not
Posted 8:22 PM, 11.20.09
user columbocitizen says...
Has Officer Wilson even apologized to the Obermaier family? Having dogs of his own he should know the hurt that he has caused and I hope that he has been respectful enough to do so. I appreciate the protective cops that we have in our area, but when something like this happens, and a cop uses excessive force towards a living animal, I unfortunately have to question my own beliefs. lacrosse02 - It's unnecessary to call those who are not in law enforcement "cowards." Have you ever killed an animal? Do you have animals of your own? I wonder because your comments make me believe that you truly do not know the pain that this family has been feeling the past couple weeks and your negative criticism is probably making it even harder for this family to cope. Just a thought.. RIP Brody
Posted 11:35 PM, 11.20.09
user says...
Most of these posts are just amazing. Nobody was there to see what happened. And yet everyone is monday morning quarterbacking. You can't say how you would react to the situation at hand, you weren't there. I'm in the same line of work as Officer Willison, and I have come close several times to shooting a dog. A co-work of mine has had to put one down and it totally destroyed him inside, but it was something that had to be done. People continue to bring up the dogs were on their property. That really shouldn't make a difference. You think that because you stepped off the property the dog would just stop, turn around, and go inside. And you mean to tell me that all of you that have posted on here have never let your dog wonder onto others property. Wether it was intentional or not, give me a break. As for the person who posted all cops are "idiots" I challenge you to go on a ride-a-long with an officer one night. Maybe then you'll get a taste of what officers deal with on a regular basis and see how quickly you have to make a choice. In fact I challenge everyone to go on at least one ride-a-long in your life. It'll give you a slightly different perspective on things.
Posted 3:05 AM, 11.21.09
user rnmom1 says...
I'm very saddened to hear about what happened to Brody. We live in the same area and have known Brody since the owner adopted him. Many times at the park my children and my own dog have played with Brody. He was full of energy but never a danger. He was just like a big puppy and when playing with my dog, he was fine with her having the stick or ball (even though she is much smaller than he was) and never once showed any aggression towards any other dogs that were around. I am aware that many people are afraid of pitbulls as they have a dangerous reputation, but in my experience this particular dog was friendly, playful, and had a great temperment. I am also VERY concerned that a gun was discharged in our neighbourhood on a Saturday afternoon! There are many children in our neighbourhood and my daughter plays with her friends on their bikes all the time. I'm so glad she was not outside that day! Not only would it have been very dangerous but I'm sure it would have traumatized her since she knows Brody. Since I was not there I cannot speculate as to the details of what happened but my prayers are with the family. I know they are grieving right now since they loved Brody as a member of their family. Please let them grieve in peace without out all these hateful postings especially from people who don't even know them.
Posted 4:20 AM, 11.21.09
user liberalcoph8r says...
I would like to thank "Explore Howard County" for removing my previous post. If you do monitor these post please leave it off. I was slinging mud and that was wrong. Im just very frustrated about the strife this incident has caused in our community. I'm a 20 year resident of Blue Sea Dr. and am feeling the tension over here. Let us all learn from this incident and move on, so home will be a place we like to go.
Posted 3:07 PM, 11.21.09
user equine says...
It is time for Mr. Broccolino to start acting as a State's Attorney and charge Officer Wilson for inhumanly and cowardly shooting Brody.
Posted 10:20 PM, 11.21.09
user silencedogood2 says...
This article probably had the most comments in the history of this website.
Posted 1:48 PM, 11.23.09
Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement