The owner of a donkey shot dead by a police officer in Georgia has begun legal action over alleged online harassment as state authorities investigate the animal’s death.
An attorney representing farmer Hannah Israel has sent at least one cease-and-desist letter accusing an unnamed recipient of “relentless, inappropriate and defamatory conduct” following the killing of HeeHaw at Elsberry Riding and Farm in Polk County.
The letter says Ms Israel has a “real and legitimate fear” of the individual and warns that she may seek a protective order and pursue a claim for damages if the alleged behaviour continues.
Georgia donkey shooting under investigation
HeeHaw was shot during a late-night search for a missing 12-year-old child on 30 August. Cedartown police said officers were assisting with the search when the donkey ran towards one of them.
According to the account provided by the farm, officers first used a Taser before the animal was shot. The child was later found safe near a church close to the pasture.
The officer involved has been placed on administrative leave. The officer’s identity has not been released, and the circumstances surrounding the shooting remain under investigation.
The Georgia Department of Agriculture’s Law Enforcement Division is examining the case. Cedartown police chief Jamie Newsome has said he wanted an outside agency to handle the inquiry, while the Polk County Sheriff’s Office has stated that its deputies were not involved in the shooting.
Ms Israel has disputed the suggestion that HeeHaw posed a serious threat, describing him as a bottle-raised donkey who was accustomed to people and had appeared at petting zoos.
She has continued to share photographs and video of the animal, including footage she described as the last recording of HeeHaw. In it, she greets him and he responds as she approaches.
A fundraising appeal set up to support Berry Farm and cover legal costs has raised more than $131,000. Ms Israel said the money would help care for the farm’s remaining animals and maintain the property.
She also plans to establish a foundation in HeeHaw’s memory while awaiting the outcome of the state investigation.
