Maine County Dogged by Liability for Off-Duty Police Canines

Three police dogs that work for the Cumberland County, Maine Sheriff’s Department are being confined to their kennels while off-duty.

The issue of liability arose when Jag, a German shepherd, bit a newspaper carrier in Auburn in 2006, leading to a $7,500 claim against the dog’s handler. The deputy was shocked to learn that the county insurer and his own insurer wouldn’t cover the claim.

Sheriff Mark Dion has ordered the county’s patrol dogs to be placed in professional kennels while off duty until the liability issue is resolved.

The handlers who rely on the bond with their dogs aren’t happy. Sgt. Stephen Lathrop says it’s an “emergency” that needs to be resolved as soon as possible.

___

Information from: Portland Press Herald,

http://www.pressherald.com

Latest Comments

• March 3, 2008 at 9:20 am

  Evolution Insurance Brokers says:

  I'ill write it. We have a great animal liability program!
• March 2, 2008 at 12:04 pm

  Nancy Germond says:

  Unbelievable. This entity needs a better insurance broker. Any takers?
• February 29, 2008 at 1:39 am

  Why not the county insurer? says:

  If the dog was obtained, trained and owned by the county, why would thier insurer not respond even if off duty? Perhaps the dog's name was "Glock"...or "Smith & Wesson" or ..... read more