Owner appeals euthanasia order for Benton City dog 'Jack' after attack; hearing officer sets written‑closing deadline

A Benton City hearing examiner heard testimony from city animal‑control staff, a deputy and several neighbors about whether a pit bull named Jack should be euthanized after an attack that prompted impoundment.

Hearing examiner Tonnie Carer opened the proceeding, identified the parties and witnesses and said the City of Benton City would present first. City staff described a prior October 2023 dangerous‑dog declaration and said Jack was impounded on Sept. 9 after the dog was found to be out of compliance with permit requirements.

The city’s animal‑control officer told the examiner she had tried to work with the owner, provided documentation that had permitted Jack to return earlier, and pursued—but had not secured—relocation options with receiving jurisdictions. She said relocation requires the owner’s initiation and that receiving jurisdictions review the initial report and may either uphold or decline the dangerous‑dog designation.

An eyewitness, Richard Momas, described escorting a child and…