Brookings residents demand stricter dog control after deadly attack on small dog

During the recent City Council meeting held on June 24, 2025, in Brookings, South Dakota, community safety and animal control emerged as pressing topics following a serious dog attack incident. The meeting was marked by emotional testimonies from residents concerned about the return of two aggressive dogs to their owners after a violent encounter that resulted in the death of a small dog and injuries to its owner.

Vince Jones, a neighbor to the dog owners, recounted the traumatic events of June 2, when the unleashed dogs attacked a woman walking her dog, leading to the latter's death. Jones expressed frustration over the current animal control laws, which allowed the dogs to be returned to their owners after a 14-day holding period, despite their history of aggression. He urged the council to reconsider and amend existing codes to prevent such incidents from recurring, emphasizing the fear and anxiety it has caused among local residents, including his own tenants.

Brooklyn Tomaszewski, a friend of the attack victim, echoed these concerns, highlighting the emotional toll on the victim and the community's apprehension regarding the dogs' return. She called for stricter enforcement of animal control policies to ensure the safety of Brookings residents, particularly families with children.

In response to the community's concerns, Police Chief Mike Drake provided a detailed account of the incident and the legal framework governing animal control in Brookings. He explained that the police acted according to city ordinances, which dictate the process for handling aggressive animals. The dogs were held for a mandatory period while their owners complied with specific requirements, including vaccinations and proper containment measures. Ultimately, the dogs were returned after meeting all legal criteria, a decision that sparked further debate among council members and residents.

The discussions highlighted a significant gap in the current animal control laws, raising questions about the adequacy of existing measures to protect the community from dangerous animals. As the council considers potential changes to the code, the incident serves as a critical reminder of the need for effective animal control policies that prioritize public safety.

The meeting concluded with a commitment from the council to further investigate the matter and explore possible amendments to the animal control ordinances. The community remains vigilant, hoping for swift action to prevent future tragedies.