GRANBY, CT — A Granby man has been sentenced to 18 months in prison for assaulting a Connecticut State Police K-9 during his arrest in East Hartland, state prosecutors announced Thursday.
Michael G. Wilkinson, 51, was sentenced Tuesday by Judge Brian W. Preleski after being convicted of illegally injuring a peace officer animal, according to the Connecticut Division of Criminal Justice.
The case stemmed from a domestic violence call on July 12, 2025. Troopers assigned to Troop B in North Canaan and Granby police officers responded to East Hartland, along with Trooper Lance Carlson and his police dog, Gordon.
When officers attempted to arrest Wilkinson, Gordon was deployed. Prosecutors said Wilkinson grabbed the dog by the neck and pinned him against a wall.
A trooper then used an electronic control device, allowing officers to take Wilkinson into custody, according to the state.
"This sentence holds the defendant accountable for his actions and recognizes the important role police canines play in protecting our law enforcement officers and our communities," Litchfield Judicial District State's Attorney David R. Shannon said in a statement. "Assaulting a police dog is a serious offense, and those who intentionally harm these dedicated animals must be held responsible."
The case was investigated by Connecticut State Police Troop B and prosecuted by Assistant State's Attorney Collin Cowdery.
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