MPD has acknowledged the need for canine encounter related training, and the need to revise current policies regarding canine encounters.

Good news for Milwaukee PD residents! MPD has acknowledged the need for canine encounter related training, and the need to revise current policies regarding canine encounters.

Per the 2012 Milwaukee, WI PD Firearms Discharge Annual Report p.17-20

2012 Milwaukee PD Dog Related Encounter Incident Stats:
- 32 dog-related encounter incidents
- 37 dogs were police targets
- 28 dogs sustained fatal injuries
- 1 dog sustained major injuries
- 8 dogs were unharmed (all shots missed)
- 118 total rounds were fired averaging 3.2 rounds per dog
- 3 of the 52 officers were involved in 2 separate dog encounter incidents (3 officers shot at a dog on more than one occasion)
- SWAT: The Tactical Enforcement Unit (TEU) was involved with 2 of the dog-related incidents

2011 Milwaukee PD Dog Related Encounters Stats:
- 36 dog-related encounter incidents
- 37 dogs were police targets
- 20 dogs sustained fatal injuries
- 11 dogs were injured
- 6 dogs were unharmed (all shots missed)
- 105 total rounds were fired averaging 2.8 rounds per dog

Conclusion

1. The MPD should develop a departmental strategy for the proper handling of dog-related incidents. This strategy should closely align with the model protocols identified in the August 2011 U.S. Department of Justice Office of Community Oriented Policing Services publication, "The Problem of Dog-Related Incidents and Encounters." The goal of this strategy should be to significantly reduce the use of deadly force in dog-related encounters.

2. The MPD should intensify training on dog behavior and appropriate use of de-escalation techniques and other non-lethal tactical response strategies for dog-related encounters.

3. The MPD should closely review every dog-related encounter that involves the discharge of a firearm to determine if the use of deadly force was appropriate and whether proper non-lethal tactical responses were considered and utilized by officers.

4. The MPD should consider revising the use of force policy to include specific dog-related protocols consistent with a revised training regimen.

http://city.milwaukee.gov/ImageLibrary/Groups/cityFPC/Reports/AnnualFirearmsReport2012.pdf