Flagstaff Officer Accused of Animal Cruelty Resigns.

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Flagstaff Police Department MEDIA RELEASE
Contact: Sgt. James A Jackson (928) 556-2300

October 22, 2012

The Flagstaff Police Department was very close to completing the final investigation of the incident involving, Cpl John Tewes that occurred on August 18, 2012. The Department was in the process of determining final action when on Friday, October 19, 2012, Cpl. Tewes tendered his resignation.

Following the August 18th incident, Police Chief Kevin Treadway said that the Flagstaff Police Department took quick action, to improve policy and training for officers in regards to dealing with injured domesticated animals. "This very unfortunate incident was a one time occurrence, and we have implemented stronger, more detailed policy and training to better prepare our officers in similar situations to provide compassionate and appropriate assistance to the community”, Treadway said.

Within days of the initial incident, the Flagstaff Police Department revised existing policy to include references to specific resources available in the community. The existing policy directed officers to contact the owner of an injured domesticated animal, if at all possible. As part of the new policy, officers are directed to seek 24 hour emergency assistance from the Coconino Humane Association or Flagstaff Animal Control when confronted with similar situations.

All officers received immediate training on this revised policy. Additionally, during squad briefings, officers recently received in-service training by personnel from the Coconino Humane Association.

Because this policy is included in our formal policy manual, officers will continue to receive periodic ongoing training on this policy and others throughout their tenure with the Flagstaff Police Department.