(Torrington, CT) – Litchfield Judicial District State’s Attorney David R. Shannon today announced that the Honorable Brian W. Preleski on September 1, 2026 sentenced Michael G. Wilkinson, age 51, of Granby, to 18 months imprisonment on the charge of Illegally Injuring a Peace Officer Animal, in violation of Connecticut General Statutes § 53-247(d)*.
Evidence showed that on July 12, 2025, members of the Connecticut State Police, Troop B, North Canaan, and members of the Granby Police Department responded to the Town of East Hartland on a domestic violence incident. In addition, Trooper Lance Carlson and his K-9 Gordon also responded to the scene. While attempting to arrest Wilkinson, K-9 Gordon was deployed. Wilkinson grabbed K-9 Gordon by the neck and pinned him against a wall. A Trooper on scene then used an electronic control device, allowing Officers to take Wilkinson into custody.
State’s Attorney Shannon stated the following: “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. 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 the Connecticut State Police, Troop B, North Canaan and was prosecuted by Assistant State’s Attorney Collin Cowdery.