Dangerous Dog Should be Harnessed, Resident Says

The following is a letter to the editor:

Why is it that our illustrious police chief, Mr. John Cook, is unable to meet with or make an appointment with a taxpayer of Springfield? The pledge on the wall to the entrance of the police station cites “Customer Value.” It states “The key to their success is customer’s satisfaction.” Then it goes on to (state) Teamwork & Collaboration both within and outside of the organization are integral to our success.

Apparently, Police Chief John Cook has not taken the time to read his department credo. I attempted four different visits to see or make an appointment with the police chief to talk about a petition I delivered on October 23, 2013 that was never addressed, commented on or investigated.

On August 28, 2012 a neighbor's dog brutally attacked and killed another dog on Shelley Road. This dog has had to be straddled, before and after, the deadly attack when it sees other dogs on the street. There are 14 homeowners, on Richland and Shelley Road, that would like this dog harnessed when out on public property. As dog lovers, we residents just want to feel safe when walking our beloved pets in public. We are asking for the dog to be harnessed, not put down!

It is “common knowledge” that the Police Chief and the dog owners are good friends. I would hate to believe, in this day and age, that obstruction of due process can occur over a dog harness that would make residents feel safe. The dog has already proven itself to be a menace in public and maybe even to animal owners, when engaged in an attack.

Another pledge on our police station wall is “Integrity -  Our employees will perform their duties in an honest ethical manner at all times to maintain the respect, trust, and confidence of the public.” Then why is it the police chief, who is paid handsomely, (is) inaccessible to the public of Springfield? The Elizabeth, Union, and Atlanta Police Chiefs who are ten times busier have a more hands on approach to the public. I was always of the opinion, it was just as important, to prevent a crime or injury, as to stop a crime or injury. I would hate to see a pet or person get hurt due to inaccessibility. Maybe now, going forward this busy Chief of Police will serve as well as protect his Springfield citizens!

Gale H. Donner