YOUNGSTOWN — A city police officer who shot at a man’s feet in August has been cleared of any wrongdoing, but he has received a reprimand and must undergo weapons training.
The Youngstown Police Department’s internal affairs division determined Officer Dan Mikus followed the deadly-force policy when he pulled his gun and fired a shot at Raymond Spires on Aug. 12. The reprimand and training are because Mikus fired at the man’s feet.
“Although implementation of use of force was justified, the manner in which the force was applied was unconventional for police firearms training. Implementing deadly force in this fashion could have broadened the danger to yourself and the public,” said a letter to Mikus from Brian Butler of internal affairs.
The investigation determined that Mikus believed he was in danger and needed to protect himself, but firing at the advancing man’s feet was not a suitable course of action. The letter did not outline specifically where Mikus should have aimed when firing his weapon.
For the complete story, read Friday's Vindicator and Vindy.com
Comments
He should have aimed for the heart. Or alternatively, issued a limb shot.
And had he shot the guy center mass the same people that said he would've been justified to do so would be crying that the cop was in the wrong!
Raymond Spires does have his supporters . This play on words is all about the officer firing at him period .
"The letter did not outline specifically where Mikus should have aimed when firing his weapon."
Right between the eyes, especially if the Officer was in danger from the animal.
What was the Officer supposed to do, put his gun away and shake hands with the guy?
well he could have done what any cop will do....say they were in fear of there life, even if there not. Just like the cop did when he shot a cat.... he felt his life was in danger.