By Paul Garrod
Staff Writer
LAWRENCE – A Pokagon Tribal Police Officer who euthanized a beloved deer in the Lawrence community was terminated from his position, Friday, Oct. 27, according to a press release from the Pokagon Tribal Police.
Pokagon Tribal Police Chief Mario RedLegs said in the press release:
“The investigation which began on Friday, Oct. 20, included review of Mr. Loza’s bodycam footage as well as interviews with several witnesses who were at the scene including Van Buren County Sheriff’s deputies, and an officer with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR).
“Commenting on the termination, Police Chief RedLegs said, “Despite consulting with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources and his supervising officer, Mr. Loza ignored comments from citizens and misidentified Annie as a ‘pet deer.’ He acted independently and committed multiple policy violations in his decision to euthanize Annie without just cause. His actions demonstrated a complete lack of compassion and empathy for Annie, as well as the witnesses and other members of the community who willingly provided her with love and support. The entire Pokagon Tribal Police Department is deeply saddened by this incident, which does not reflect our core values to protect and serve the community. The Pokagon Tribal Police will be working to identify ways we can demonstrate our support for animal rights and help area rescues which provide sanctuary and rehabilitation services to animals in need.”
It concluded, “The Pokagon Band Tribal Police will now refer the case to the Van Buren County Prosecutor for review to determine if charges will be filed against Mr. Loza.”
I stand behind all my comments It was murder
Have the tribe erect a statue of Annie and the cost to be the responsible of her killer!
I hope the prosecutor presses charges for this senseless and inhumane act of violence. David Loza needs to have consequences. I hope he loses his rights to hunt and fish permanently because of this.