Metropolitan Police officers shot and killed two Staffordshire bull terriers, Marshall and Millions, in the capital earlier this month. They did this after receiving a call about the dogs allegedly attacking a woman. A 46-year-old homeless man, Louie Turnbull, is accused of owning these “dangerously out-of-control” dogs and had to go to court.
The controversial deaths of Marshall and Millions led to protests and vigils nationwide. People are demanding justice for the dogs and want those responsible in the police to be held accountable.
At Different Protests, Dogs Killed by The Met Officers will be Remembered
Recently, two Staffordshire bull terriers named Marshall and Millions were tragically shot and killed by Metropolitan Police officers in London. This incident, which occurred on Sunday, May 7 in Tower Hamlets, has triggered widespread outrage.
The owner of these dogs, a homeless man named Louie Turnbull, was taken into custody and charged with having dangerous dogs. Video footage of the confrontation between Turnbull and the police, resulting in the fatal shooting of his dogs, has circulated on social media.
Turnbull recounted the terrifying moment when the police suddenly opened fire, using a volley of firearms, which frightened both him and his dogs. He expressed that the officers pulled out all their weapons, creating an intimidating atmosphere, while his dogs were just trying to protect him. He had them on a leash, attempting to pull them away, but the police ended up fatally shooting them.
Following this incident, a debate and widespread public outrage ensued. Demonstrations against the Metropolitan Police, accused of killing two dogs, have begun on the streets of London.
Additionally, a protest organized by the Doncaster vigil is scheduled to start at 1:00 PM on the High Street in the city’s heart next month. Organizer Joanna Behrendt stated, “The peaceful vigil demonstrates our support, love, and concern for Marshall and Millions.”
How are People Reacting to This Incident?
Dog enthusiasts and advocates for animal welfare are taking to the streets to express their anger, categorizing the entire incident as an example of “police brutality.” This has unfolded amidst ongoing discussions about the responsibility, whether it lies with the owner or the police.
As reported by Daily Mail, Animal Rising disclosed that approximately 200 individuals participated in a demonstration outside the headquarters of the police force. They brought along dogs of various breeds and lit vegan candles.
Emotional and visibly upset, many of them voiced their frustration towards the officers. Chants like “rapists and murderers” and “No justice, no peace, they’re killing dogs on our streets” echoed through the protest.
Animal Rising stated, “We are here to remember the two beautiful dogs Marshall and Millions who were killed by the Met Police, to remember all the human and non-human lives that are taken every day at the hands of the state and the police, and to hold the Met Police accountable for their actions.”
In addition to the protests, a petition has been initiated by the public, seeking justice for Marshall and Millions. This petition calls for action to be taken against the Metropolitan Police, although, at this moment, there is no official information regarding the officers’ next steps.
Impressively, the petition has garnered support from over 60,000 individuals, who are demanding criminal charges against the Metropolitan Police officers for what they describe as the “barbaric” killing of these dogs.
To Sum Up
In the case of Marshall and Millions, their tragic deaths have ignited a nationwide outcry, with calls for justice and accountability echoing through protests, vigils, and a significant petition.
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