From Deseret News archives:
Owner charged with ordering pit bull to attack Midvale police dog
William Knowlton, 26, was charged in 3rd District Court with injuring a police service animal, a third-degree felony.
On Nov. 4, police K9 "Kasch," a Belgian Malinois, was with his handler, Midvale police officer Kresdon Bennett, who was assisting officer Issac Pace on a call of a protective order violation, according to court documents.
The officers went to a home near 8500 South and 200 West where Knowlton began arguing with Pace, court documents state.
While standing outside arguing with the officers, Knowlton opened the door to his house, allowing his pit bull to wander out, according to court documents. The pit bull attacked Kasch, biting him above his left eye. The attack resulted in Kasch receiving six staples to his head, according to court documents.
The pit bull sunk its teeth into Kasch and didn't let go. Bennett tried kicking the pit bull off and eventually drew his handgun, but Knowlton stepped in front of the officer and told him not to shoot the dog, according to court documents. But at the same time, he didn't call the pit bull off either, prosecutors say.
Pace then Tasered the pit bull until it let go of Kasch and ran away. As of Monday, the pit bull remained missing.
Kasch received emergency medical treatment following the attack. The police dog has since returned to duty.
E-mail: preavy@desnews.com
