Trooper who shot dog investigated

A state trooper who said he shot and killed his dog in self defense is being investigated by Carson City police.

Carson City Sheriff's Detective Bob Motamenpour said Tuesday he is investigating the May 15 shooting in which Nevada Highway Patrol Trooper Michael DelSoldato shot his wife's 7-year-old Shar-Pei twice in the backyard of the family home.

Motamenpour said depending on the outcome of the investigation, DelSoldato, a 16-year veteran of the NHP, could be charged with misdemeanor animal cruelty and discharging a firearm in a residential neighborhood.

The matter was initially being investigated by Carson City Animal Control, but was turned over to deputies because of the nature of the charges, Motamenpour said.

According to police records, DelSoldato said when that he thumped a stick on the ground near the dog to reprimand it for running away, the animal began to growl and bark. According to the report, DelSoldato said the dog went around the house where he couldn't see it, then came back and bit him on his right calf, at which time he kicked the dog.

When the dog advanced again, DelSoldato drew his duty weapon and fired two rounds, striking the dog both times, the report states. The dog died at the scene. A Carson City deputy who responded to the call reported he saw no marks on DelSoldato's leg.

A neighbor who lives three houses from the trooper said she believed that if the animal attacked, it was because the trooper was beating it.

The woman, who asked not to be identified, said she heard what sounded like DelSoldato beating the dog shortly after she saw him put the Shar-Pei named Butter in the backyard.

Contact F.T. Norton at ftnorton@nevadaappeal.com or 881-1213.