SALT LAKE CITY (AP) — An independent civilian review board has cleared a Salt Lake City officer in the fatal shooting of a dog in its own fenced backyard.

Police Chief Chris Burbank announced Friday that the panel found Detective Brett Olsen “acted within policy” when he shot the dog during a search for a missing 3-year-old boy on June 18. The shooting prompted protests and hundreds of emails demanding Olsen’s termination.

A report says Olsen was authorized to enter the yard without a warrant because he believed the boy’s life could be threatened, and he feared for his safety when the dog started charging him.

The boy later was found safe inside his home.

Sean Kendall, owner of the slain Weimaraner, says Olsen entered his backyard illegally and he plans to pursue legal action against the department.

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