Currently, the Ohio Revised Code classifies assault of a police dog as a third degree misdemeanor which is a maximum of 60 days in prison.
However, “Jethro’s Bill” would ensure those who commit acts of violence against police dogs face more severe sentencing.
Whoever violates this proposed law would be facing a first degree felony, an 11 year prison sentence and a maximum fine of $20,000.
The journey for this bill first began when Canton Police Officer Ryan Davis lost his K-9 partner, Jethro, in January.
Davis and Jethro had responded to a burglary at Fisher Food’s, a local grocery store in Canton.
Following training, the nearly 3-year-old German shepherd was attempting to apprehend the suspect , Kelontre D. Barefield. This is when Barefield opened fired on the unit. Jethro was shot four times in the head and neck area and later died from his wounds.
Davis said in a testimony to the committee, “Jethro is the reason I sit here today… he gave his life to save mine!”
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