Family Of Shot Dog May Pursue Legal Action Against Township, Police

The family of a German shepherd who was shot and killed by a township police officer may pursue legal action against the township yet.

Patrolman Kyle Ferreira shot Otto twice April 30 while investigating an alleged burglary at the residence at 622 Lawlins Road. Ferreira was supposed to go to 621 Lawlins Road.

Otto reportedly lunged at Ferreira out of a window, bit his foot, and wouldn’t let go. Ferreira reportedly fired four shots at the dog, two of which hit him. Otto died later that night at the Oradell Animal Hospital.

The family is disputing Ferreira’s account of what happened. They are waiting for an official report from the Wyckoff Police Department.

The family found a bullet and three bullet shell casings they allege came from the four bullets Ferreira’s police report said he fired at Otto.

“We don’t believe them because we know our dog,” said Zana Vukobratovic.

Vukobratovic said the police did not take any notes or pictures when they came to investigate the incident.

Igor Vukobratovic’s son, said the family has contacted the police’s internal affairs department and the township prosecutor.

Police Chief Benjamin Fox could not be reached for comment.

“I have nothing against the police, but we want some justice here,” Igor Vukobratovic said. “They fired a gun off on our property and didn’t even clean up afterwards.”

(Pictured: Otto, the German shepherd that was killed/Patch file photo)