Charges Dropped Against Fort Collins Man Who Shot Bear To Protect His Dog
FORT COLLINS, Colo. (CBS4) - Charges have been dropped against a man who shot and killed a bear in his Fort Collins backyard in late August.
Andrew Richards was originally charged with three misdemeanors -- unlawful take of wildlife, unlawful possession of wildlife, and unlawful discharge of firearm in a careless manner. The Larimer County District Attorney's Office announced on Wednesday the charges have been dismissed.
"The Larimer County District Attorney's Office and Colorado Parks and Wildlife have jointly determined that all criminal charges against Mr. Andrew Richards, for the shooting of a bear … should be dismissed," Jodi Lacey with the district attorney's office said in a statement. "After a complete review of all of the evidence, there is no evidence that Mr. Richards intended to violate Colorado wildlife statutes."
The shooting happened Aug. 20 in the Fossil Creek Meadows neighborhood. The man says he was trying to protect his dog from the bear. It's illegal to kill wildlife, even if a pet is in danger.
Under Colorado law, Parks and Wildlife says residents are protected if they shoot and kill a bear to protect themselves, their home, car or livestock; but not if a bear is attacking a dog.
Richards told police he shot the bear one time with a rifle. After looking into the death, Parks and Wildlife decided to charge him, saying pets are not included in Colorado's statue.
Additional Information From The Larimer County District Attorney's Office
As winter approaches, encounters with bears, even in an urban setting, are quite common. If a bear is spotted, residents are urged to keep their pet indoors, avoid contact with the bear and to immediately notify the Colorado Parks and Wildlife or their local law enforcement agency. Contact the Colorado Parks and Wildlife at 970-472-4300 to report injured or problem wildlife. For after hour emergencies, call the Colorado State Patrol at 303-239-4500 or contact your local law enforcement agency.
