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Ozaukee County Opens Criminal Probe Into Former Thiensville Officer After Dog Shooting

Mequon requested an outside investigation because the shooting occurred outside Thiensville's jurisdiction, placing criminal review with the county sheriff's office.

Overview

  • Police records and body camera footage show a Thiensville officer fired on two unattended dogs near Cedarburg and Highland roads, with one dog killed and the other wounded.
  • The encounter took place on April 23, when the officer said one dog changed demeanor and advanced, prompting him to shoot multiple times.
  • The officer was placed on administrative leave while the department opened an internal probe and then resigned before that review concluded.
  • Local reports identify the officer as Richard McCormick and describe video that appears to show him firing repeatedly; the Ozaukee County Sheriff's Office is now leading a criminal investigation at Mequon's request.
  • The surviving dog was found days later, treated at a veterinary facility and is expected to survive while rescuers and advocates call for clearer police policies and training on handling loose animals.