LAYTON, Utah (AP) -- A police dog accused of biting at least two joggers has been cleared to return to duty, leaving his alleged victims barking mad.
The K-9 officer Rex was taken out of police service after he allegedly bit Lindsey McKee, 20, as she was jogging on the Layton High School track on Sept. 18.
"The Utah Peace Officers and Standards Training Division did an independent evaluation of Rex last week, and their report came back favorable," Layton Police Lt. Kevin Allred said. "The matter was also investigated internally, and Rex was found to be fit to return to duty."
Rex also is accused of biting Sherri Tatton, owner of Costume Castle & Crafts, on Oct. 7, 2001, while she was working late in her store doing inventory. Tatton said she had propped open her back door to make it easier to get to the trash bin.
Police discovered the open door and sent in the German shepherd, which bit her hand when she attempted to go up stairs. She said it took three officers to get the dog off her.
Tatton has since filed a lawsuit against the city.
"I am really, really disappointed, and my clients are extremely angry," said South Ogden attorney Kris Greenwood, who serves as legal counsel for both McKee and Tatton.
But Layton police believe Rex, in whom they have invested up to $6,000 in training, is too valuable an asset to take out of service or destroy, and Allred said they are pleased to have the dog back.
Layton Assistant City Attorney Steve Garside said the investigation of Rex's handler on Sept. 18 continues. That investigation has been referred to an outside agency for review to prevent any conflict of interest.
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