FBI Sniper Charged In Shooting Death Of Local Family’s Pet Dog

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(March 7, 2008)—FBI agent Lovett Leslie Ledger, Jr., 39, of Lorena surrendered Friday morning to McLennan County authorities and was charged with animal cruelty in the shooting death of a Central Texas family’s pet dog.

The complaint stems from a McLennan County Sheriff’s Office investigation of the dog’s death on Feb. 29.

According to the arrest affidavit, Ledger told a witness that he shot the gun with a pump bb/pellet gun and said he, “must have pumped the gun up too much.”

The 3-to-4 pound Chihuahua was walking on Estes Road in front of its home when it was shot once.

It ran into the yard of one of Ledger’s neighbors, where it died.

Sources told News Ten Ledger is a sniper and a member of an FBI SWAT team.

The FBI in Austin earlier confirmed that an agent was under investigation, but didn’t identify the agent by name.

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Comments are posted from viewers like you and do not always reflect the views of this station.

Posted by: Anonymous Location: Washington DC on Apr 30, 2009 at 08:53 AM
I happen to be an FBI employee and have reported this to the people who handle internal disciplinary matters...although they probably already know about it. This jerk is a disgrace and does not represent the otherwise great men and women of the Bureau. He should resign or be fired.

Posted by: Jim Location: New York on Oct 19, 2008 at 07:04 PM
The FBI HRT is comprised of bedwetting sissies that only know how to attack women, children and pets.

Posted by: News Viewer Location: Central Texas on Mar 26, 2008 at 12:56 PM
KWTX, could you please give your viewers an update on this story? Thank you

Posted by: webster Location: texas on Mar 26, 2008 at 12:04 AM
yes, where is the follow -up? Where in the hell is "floriduh"? Would that be somewhere in thugville? What the hell is "tuff"? We need some of you to please use subtitles for those of us that make a decent attempt at actually using english as opposed to hickbonics, ebonics or thugbonics! if'n u is goan live here speaks da langage, PLEASE!!!!!

Posted by: jk Location: usa on Mar 21, 2008 at 04:09 PM
What is the status of this case? Have court dates been set? Has the Defendant made a court appearance? Any additional charges?

Posted by: D. Thornton Location: Floriduh on Mar 16, 2008 at 08:26 AM
Typical for a trigger happy FBI thug wanna be tuff guy. Good thing he didnt shoot my dog. Or he would get the same reply from my rifle.

Posted by: Sarah Location: Cove on Mar 12, 2008 at 04:29 PM
I don't think the person who said he killed other pets in the neighborhood meant it like that. I think they were saying that he PROBABLY killed other animals. And those of you who actually thought Les was writing on here, you must have no common sense. If he is detained, how could he have access to a computer? And for those of you who keep putting down Pitbulls; they are only mean if you make them that way. I have 3, and they lick you to death. Why can't y'all just wait until the whole story comes out? So judgemental.

Posted by: Pets belong on a leash Location: Waco on Mar 12, 2008 at 03:19 PM
This is prime example why pets should be confined to their own yard and not allowed to run lose in other people yard. Where is the responsible pet owner who is crying foul?

Posted by: Cindy Location: Belton on Mar 12, 2008 at 10:12 AM
I can't believe this is still in the news! And why are some COVE people yelling? There's a key to your left on your keyboard called Caps Lock. Please hit it and your cap light will go off. People don't like reading All Cap comments.(Control Yourselves Please). This whole situation was not handled very well at all, for whatever reason. Egos can get out of control. Maybe apologize sincerely to the pet owner, I'm sure they're still hurt and buy them a new Chihuahua pup. (I would accept it, if it were me). And maybe an apology to neighbors too. Defuse The Situation. Kindness goes a long way. No one should lose their job, just control tempers. After all, time will heal this. I feel for all involved. I suppose that we will see here what happens with this case at a later date. Until then .........

Posted by: jeff Location: cove on Mar 11, 2008 at 11:19 PM
"I just believe that it is quite hypocritical that we attack people so harshly as soon as there is a one time blemish against them"!~ So everyone should be allowed to commit 1 crime for free? I like your thinking & I can definitely get behind that concept! lol This is an interesting story & it has definitely divided folks into several camps i.e. "animal lovers", "protect my space at any cost",etc. Like it or not, we do place a higher level of expectations on law enforcement officers (as well as others in our society)! When they make the choice to break a law, it is more so disturbing than if it was joe/jane xyz down the street because it shakes the very foundation of our own security. Again like it or not it casts a shadow on ALL officers. I think Les needs to make peace with the dogs owner(a little girl i believe) as she will forgive him cuz thats what kids do. the court case will pan out on its own & everyone can move on with their lives! hopefully we all learn something from this!

Posted by: Andre M Location: Killeen, Tx on Mar 11, 2008 at 03:35 PM
"He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone"(St.John 8:7 kjv)Do you any of you critics remember that? People often ask what is wrong with this country and here's the answer....we would rather place a man on trial for killing a dog and meanwhile give repeated offender and violator of more vile crimes, slaps on the wrist. I am in no way in support of animal killing or cruelity. I just believe that it is quite hypocrital that we attack people so harshly as soon as there is a one time blemish against them. In closing, if a good 90-95% of were to have our lives on open display, I wonder how many of us would either be in jail or on the way to jail for the crimes we have committed. The difference is that we just haven't been caught for our wrong doings.

Posted by: LOUIS D. Location: COVE on Mar 11, 2008 at 03:07 PM
HEY, ARE WE IN FRANCE?!I'M SORRY A FAMILY LOST THIER TACO BELL DOG.REALLY I AM..I LIKE DOGS AND OTHER ANIMALS TOO.AS A MATTER OF FACT I HAVE A DORKIE THAT I WOULD LIKE TO STRANGLE BUT MY WIFE WON'T LET ME.OOH NO!! I'M A CHILD KILLER NOW TOO!ANY HOO. I AM VERY AMAZED AT ALL THE PSYCHOLOGICAL PROFILING THATS BEING DONE ON THIS BLOG.THATS TV FOR YA!I KNEW THAT A PSYCH DEGREE WAS EASY TO GET BUT COME ON! HOW MANY OF YOU ACTUALLY KNOWS WHAT WENT ON? YOU GUYS ARE ALL SPECULATING AND ASSUMING.SALEM WITCH TRIALS AGAIN. IF THIS GUY BROKE THE LAW HE WILL PAY OR NOT. DEPENDING ON THE RULING. TRUST IN THE LAW.STOP ACTING LIKE TREE HUGGING, RIGHT WING LIBERALS.DOG = DOG,HUMAN = HUMAN,TREE = TREE.JUST BECAUSE YOU KILL TREE DOES NOT MEAN YOU KILL HUMAN TOO.GIVE ME A BREAK. WHATS REALLY SAD IS THAT THE STORY "MAN CHARGED WITH PUTTING BABY IN MICROWAVE.." ONLY GOT 3 HITS AND THIS STORY GOT 149 HITS INCLUDING MINE. WOW?!?WHATS UP WITH THAT?

Posted by: Susie Location: Central Texas on Mar 11, 2008 at 11:01 AM
This message is for ....."Posted by: M Location: TX on Mar 10, 2008 at 12:34 PM" DEER PROBLEM! There is a product called 'liquid fence' that will keep the deer out of your plants....google it! Wonderful stuff!

Posted by: Jerry Location: Gatesville on Mar 11, 2008 at 10:20 AM
You've proven my point, JMB.

Posted by: JMB Location: Irving, TX on Mar 11, 2008 at 01:37 AM
Spare me your playground retorts, Jerry. First, I didn't lose any argument. Second, referring to people like you as mindless morons is not name calling, it's classification. Third, what's really a shame is that this country has too many people like you who don't listen, don't think, and don't care. Now, I don't usually recommend Christianity to people, but I really think you should check into it. Maybe a little old-fashioned religion would help you get your moral compass working again. Or maybe not...

Posted by: Jerry Location: Gatesville on Mar 10, 2008 at 09:57 PM
JMB, the first sign of losing an argument is resorting to name-calling. It's a shame that America has fallen so far that anyone who disagrees with you is a moron. It is, in fact, just a dog.

Posted by: Lisa Location: Lakewood, CA on Mar 10, 2008 at 08:20 PM
All things considered: with all his training, I think he should have a clue "how much he has pumped his weapon." He is an idiot that should resign before he gets fired! I hope they have enough sense to rid themselves of this moron.

Posted by: Cindy Location: Belton on Mar 10, 2008 at 07:52 PM
And to ( L )... whether you are Ledger or not, I appreciate your last comment. People vent on these posts. I have a chihuahua and when I read the above story I was outraged. I just want why this happened.

Posted by: Cindy Location: Belton on Mar 10, 2008 at 07:33 PM
Alvin, yes, that other officer's name should not have been posted. In the case above however, there have also been threats from what appears to be a Ledger family member to the neighbors where he lives. Those comments are direct threats to certain individuals in his neighborhood and can have legal repercussions too!! That's more serious than any ranting... I would hope that Agent Ledger and his FBI would not stoop that low just "get back" at commenters on an open forum about a "story of himself". Surely the FBI have much more important things to do. I am a Repulican and all for the Patriot Act. But if govt agents are going to do this (patrol news veiwers comments), then my vote will go for Obama.

Posted by: Richard Location: Brenham on Mar 10, 2008 at 06:46 PM
It does not matter that it is "just a dog" what matters is the man took it upon himself to be judge, jury , and executioner. It must be something in the FBI training, because we see more and more of this, just like FBI Sniper Lon Horuchi at Ruby Ridge in 1992 who shot a innocent woman holding her infant! Why could this man not simply picked up the phone nad called his neighbor to tell him that there dog was loose? No he had to be big bad FBI sniper man and take justice into his own hands! HE KNEW THE LAW, HE BROKE IT, NOW PUNISH HIM!

Posted by: Justice on Mar 10, 2008 at 06:28 PM
The agent has killed other dogs in his neighborhood. This is a very bad sign. ANIMAL ABUSE AND ITS RELATION TO VIOLENCE, CHILD ABUSE AND MURDER: Animal abuse is not just the result of a minor personality flaw in the abuser but rather a symptom of a deep mental disturbance. Research in psychology and criminology shows that people who commit acts of cruelty toward animals don't stop there; many of them move on th their fellow humans. The FBI has found that a history of cruelty to animals is one of the traits that regularly appear in its computer records of serial rapists and murderers, and the standard diagnostic and treatment manual for psychiatric and emotional disorders lists cruelty to animals as a diagnostic criterion for conduct disorders. A study conducted by Northeastern University and the Massachusetts SPCA found that people who abuse animals are five times more likely to commit violent crimes against humans. How he made it through the FBI hiring process is the question.

Posted by: JMB Location: Irving, TX on Mar 10, 2008 at 06:14 PM
To the mindless morons who think that "it's just a dog" is all the excuse you need to shoot one, you're forgetting that this dog belonged to someone. Apparently, you "it's just a dog" morons are incapable of understanding that, or you're just too primitive and immoral too care. I doubt you'd be so casual if it was something of yours that was wantonly destroyed by someone in your neighborhood. And quit trying to portray this as an example of a brave lawman defending the neighborhood against marauding Chihuahuas. Ledger lied when he claimed that he's unfamiliar with the capabilities of one of his own guns. To me, that says he didn't have a good reason to shoot the dog. Otherwise, why would he have to fall back on a BS excuse? JMB

Posted by: stephanie Location: Groesbeck on Mar 10, 2008 at 04:47 PM
I have been reading the comments on this for a few days now. We do not know all the story. I realize it was a chi dog but if you have ever been bitten you know even a small dog bite does hurt. Maybe this is a side to the story. When I was little my Grandpa had a chi dog named Peggy and we were terrified of her because she would bite everyone but my Grandpa,including my Grandma.The owners should have made sure their furry family member was supervised. I am also sure since he used a BB gun he never intended to kill the dog just run it off his property. I know some bb guns are pretty powerful we use our to kill rats in our hay and feed barn.I say get off the guy until you have all the facts, if he had killed a loose Pit Bull you would all be singing his praises as a hero.

Posted by: Alvin Location: Crawford on Mar 10, 2008 at 04:00 PM
Cindy, I was not referring to the allegations involving this particular case. I was referring to another law officer's name being dragged into the conversation, accusations of marital infidelity and criminal behavior, accusations of another dog being shot by the defendant, claiming the defendant lied to law enforcement(which is apparently untrue), suggestions that he is a threat to his own family, etc. Writing that someone has committed crimes without any proof, and trying to use those suggestions to smear that person can have legal repercussions. Considering the fact that none of us knows the whole story, it might be best to hold off on the rampant speculation/conjecture.

Posted by: Anonymous on Mar 10, 2008 at 03:43 PM
Pundit.. what the h*ll are you talking about? And did you not learn to capitalize in school when you start a sentence? That's the most idiotic post I've read on here. Maybe you need to stay off TMZ website and take some grammar lessons.

Posted by: anonymous on Mar 10, 2008 at 03:33 PM
No person should lose their job over this. The owners should be fined for all that has happened. With ownership, responsibility comes. I do not want or own a dog. If my dog injured a child or even messed on their yard, I would feel totally responsible. If your minor child commits a crime, you parents are responsible. If your dog bites my child, I am taking you to court and putting you in jail if I get the chance. Moral of the story is, keep your dogs in the house or in your yard. Those of us who do not own dogs do not want to do what YOU were supposed to do.

Posted by: Rick Location: Waco on Mar 10, 2008 at 03:03 PM
Thank you L, I will accept your apology. For some reason, when it comes to our pets, emotions run high. I apologize for my remarks. I have a chihuahua that I love very much.

Posted by: pundit Location: world on Mar 10, 2008 at 02:49 PM
why do people always bring the mythical god into every discussion? if there really was a god the pellet would have ricocheted somehow and hit him in the eye or something! many have questioned his judgement but do snipers even make decisions in order to exercise any kind of judgement? i always thought the agent in charge at a situation made the decision to shoot as that is always the last resort! maybe taking down a little dog that was posing no immediate threat gave him a rush as he FINALLY got to make the call to shoot! well off to the next story about someone that has no moral, ethical judgement or decency! wait lol, i do think we should get paris hilton's feelings on this as im sure many of you would hang on every incoherent word based on some of the postings!! no-one wins in this situation...no-one! and for some of you though i think its the same person huge is not spelled hugh! wtf?

Posted by: L Location: out of TX on Mar 10, 2008 at 02:41 PM
Like Alvin wrote IP address can be tracked, and no this is not Ledger! I would like to apoligize for getting into a senseless word war in which EVERYONE is losing! I feel for all persons involved and will pray for all instead of continuing to spout my side. 'The anger of man does not acheive the righteousness of God'James 1:20. Only God can judge his heart and what everyone's motives are in this case. There are many, many more inconceivable happenings in your community that anger & time should be spent on. Each will have to an accounting of their own actions. Say whatever you'd like I won't be back commenting on this incident!

Posted by: Cindy Location: Belton on Mar 10, 2008 at 02:20 PM
Alvin, I agree that people should not be posting Law Officer's names on here. But in this case, KWTX and all the news agencies have posted this man's name, crime charged with, picture, occupation and where he lives. Are all the media stations liable?? Should he sue every person who didn't like or agree with what he did?? All of America would be in court if Clinton, Obama, Bush or McCain sued everyone who has posted a negative comment about them! Geeezzz!! Honestly, if he had shot a pitbull, I would have thanked him. But if he had shot MY Chihuahua, I would have called the sheriff. As a citizen, I have that right to do so. And I too would like to know more facts about this case as to why he felt he needed to do this.

Posted by: LongBowWife Location: Texas, Baby on Mar 10, 2008 at 01:24 PM
Okay, I have to admit when I first heard about the trigger happy agent, it made my stomach turn but let's remember there are two sides to every story. I absolutely love animals and believe they aren't as dumb as some ignorant people think they are. I refuse to get my panties in a wad over this well, until more of the facts are revealed ;)

Posted by: Jessica Location: Ohio on Mar 10, 2008 at 01:18 PM
I am an avid animal lover and human lover. There are a lot of ignorant, self-righteous people commenting on here making complete fools of themselves. You are only making it more evident why our country is constantly full of hate and irrational reactions. As for this story, it is not the dog's fault he was off leash, it is the owner's responsibility to secure their animals. Just because the owner did not comply to the laws does not mean this man had the right to shoot him. This is quite simple to grasp if you would push your emotions aside and realized a crime was committed and that dog's life is protected by our law's. These are defenseless animals against us. And most that do attack are because of fear that we created and put onto them. I hope some of you read this and reflect on how infantile and uneducated you sound.

Posted by: Anonymous on Mar 10, 2008 at 01:02 PM
Oh please it's a dog!! What about oh please they are ghetto rats or barrio rats. A dog is worth more than most people

Posted by: D Location: Harker Heights on Mar 10, 2008 at 12:58 PM
To all you IDIOTS out there who have dumb comments about Dogs and going to Mexico. i hope his career is ruined over this poor defenceless DOG. A 4 lb Chuhuahua is not something to be shooting at. all of you who have made comments abouts poor lil dogs Hope one day you fools get yours somehow some way. Hope this fool gets what he deserves.... lil dogs have big hearts my thoughts and prayers out out to the family and there lost of a beloved pet.

Posted by: HJ Location: WACO on Mar 10, 2008 at 12:50 PM
PUT SOME BAD STUFF IN THERE FOOD THEY WANT BE BACK.

Posted by: B Location: COPPERAS COVE on Mar 10, 2008 at 12:41 PM
GIVE THE GUY A BREAK HE IS TRAINED TO PROTECT AND DEFEND ALL.....WHAT IF IT WAS YOUR CHILD OR YOUR GRANDCHILD BEING AFFECTED BY A WONDERING ANIMAL... EVEY PERSON HAS THE RIGHT TO PROTECT THEMSELVES AND THERE FAMILY... I WOULD PROTECT MINE IN THIS MANNER IF I HADE TOO. AND I BELIEVE MOST PEOPLE WOULD... AS A MOTHER I WILL PROTECT MY CHILDREN FROM WHAT EVER IS IN HARMS WAY, AS A DOG OWNER I KEEP MY BOXER ON A LEASH AT ALL TIMES AND UNDER CONTROL. I HAVE THE RIGHT TO WALK MY PET, AS LONG AS I FOLLOW THE LEASH LAW AND DON'T LET HIM HURT ANYONES PROPERTY OR PERSONS..... LET THE MAN BE HE DID WHAT HE FELT WAS RIGHT. WE ALL HAVE OUR OWN OPINONS. BUT HONESTLY IF A DOG WAS ATTACKING OR HARMING YOU HE WOULD BE THE OFFICER THAT ARRIVED AT THE CALL OF DUTY AND DID THE SAME THIS SHOOT A DOG TO PROTECT YOU WOULD YOU HAVE HARSH FEELING TOWARD HIM THEN...I THINK NOT. GOOD JOB I SUPPORT YOU.

Posted by: M Location: TX on Mar 10, 2008 at 12:34 PM
I had to chase 3 deer off my properity again this morning. They come here every day and night, eat my flower garden, bushes, trees and even knock over my potted plants. I CAN NOT shoot them unless I want to be slapped with a HUGH fine and/or jailed. We are told by the law, that in our community, that's just part of living here and we have to deal with it or move. If Lorena has no leash laws, then deal with it or move. If you decide to take the law into your own hands, then you'll be fined and/or charged with animal cruelty. This man choose his path and it's not anybody else's fault that it's in the news and people are reacting. [ Free Press & Freedom to Express] this is America last I heard....

Posted by: Anonymous Location: Waco,tc on Mar 10, 2008 at 12:32 PM
oh, please its a dog!!!!!!

Posted by: Shannon Location: Copperas Cove on Mar 10, 2008 at 12:17 PM
It was a chihuahua!!!! My God! How cruel can you be!! I doubt he, Les, was fearing for his life!! I hope he gets what he deserves in court.

Posted by: Alvin Location: Crawford on Mar 10, 2008 at 11:51 AM
There are numerous potentially libelous statements posted here. I hope some of you realize that every comment here can be tracked (by IP address) back to your computer, and that you're ready to defend your statements in court. If I were the defendant in this case or "Joseph Klepper," I would be dragging some folks to court. Computers are not anonymous, and false accusations have repercussions.

Posted by: Steve Location: West on Mar 10, 2008 at 11:42 AM
Man, after reading all this drama, I wouldn't want to live in that neighborhood at all. Seems like everyone there is hateful. The vitriol in these comments is disturbing.

Posted by: citizen Location: riesel on Mar 10, 2008 at 11:17 AM
joseph klepper is another central texas ,dog shooting police officer. he also uses a bb gun. ive seen him shoot at least 2 in riesel.

Posted by: Betty Location: Moody on Mar 10, 2008 at 10:46 AM
There are two sides to every story. Why not wait until you have both sides instead of pre-judging anyone and ruining this man's career over what -- a DOG!! PLEASE!! Get a Life!!! We live in the country in McLennan County and I have personally called the Sheriff's Dept to complain about roaming dogs and was told to shoot them.

Posted by: anonymous on Mar 10, 2008 at 10:31 AM
"5Now Moses in the law commanded us, that such should be stoned: but what sayest thou? 6This they said, tempting him, that they might have to accuse him. But Jesus stooped down, and with his finger wrote on the ground, as though he heard them not. 7So when they continued asking him, he lifted up himself, and said unto them, He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone..." John 8:5-7

Posted by: Citizen Location: tx on Mar 10, 2008 at 10:25 AM
SICK TO MY STOMACH, Yes, we're all sick to our stomach's that this LAW MAN was NOT out fighting the horrible crimes you mentioned. Instead he's spending his time killing his neighbor's pets! GLASS HOUSE??hmmmm, I've read that very phrase in one of " L's " comments, who we all know now is Ledger because he's going to sell his house to "a couple of convicted child molesting, homosexual muslims". Are we threatening people on here again? Temper Temper -- Shame Shame!

Posted by: People First Location: Waco on Mar 10, 2008 at 10:13 AM
Just for all those who say call animal control or sheriffs department, I have three hugh labs down the street from my house who think they own the street. I along with several other neighbors have been chased down the street by these turkeys. We have called the cops and told them that there not on leashes and they dont care. It's sad that I cannot walk around my block because someone else wants to be a jerk. So, if they come into my yard I have the right to shoot. Its not cruelty to animals when its self defense, regardless of size. Sometimes small packages can have big surprises. Also its true, why in the heck are people commenting on dog that was shot, instead of all the people killed. If people would pay more attention to humans instead of animals.......I am an animal lover, dont get me wrong but, people need to get their priorities straight.

Posted by: A Location: tx on Mar 10, 2008 at 09:50 AM
I'm sure this sniper's SWAT team is really proud of his latest kill!! Isn't there many, much more serious crimes going on that he could make better use of his skills, than shooting dogs in his yard?? I hope he gets the help he needs before another innocent victim (pet or human) gets in front of his trigger.

Posted by: Patriot Location: TX on Mar 10, 2008 at 09:20 AM
This story is disturbing to people because it's about a trained FBI sniper who shot a dog that is the smallest breed in the world (no threat there). It's about a professional killer that apparently has no self control and is now threatening his neighbors on this post. Thousands of people experience roaming dogs in our towns and cities everyday. Do we all get out our guns and start shooting? Of course not, we are a civilized nation with laws! And John in Germany, yeah right, and I'm the Queen of England.

Posted by: melissa Location: maryland on Mar 10, 2008 at 08:45 AM
mary from texas-its people like you that make real humans want those like yourself to get on your own little island of bigotry and leave the rest of us real citizens to try and clean up the senseless, ignorant hate that you have left us with.

Posted by: SICK TO MY STOMACH Location: HEWITT on Mar 10, 2008 at 08:44 AM
THIS IS HOW MESSED UP OUR SOCIETY IS TODAY. I LOOKED AT THE STORIES THAT HAD COMMENTS ATTACHED TO THEM AND MY HEART FELL INTO MY STOMACH. THERE ARE 6 STORIES WITH COMMENTS AND YOU CAN AD ALL OF THEM UP AND NOT ADD UP TO HOW MANY STUPID COMMENTS THERE ARE ABOUT THIS FBI AGENT KILLING A DOG. JUST BELOW THAT STORY IS ONE ABOUT AN ACTUAL HUMAN INFANT THAT DIED IN A DAYCARE,A 9 YEAR OLD THAT DIES IN A CAR WRECK,A BABY'S MURDER, 3 CHILDREN THAT DIED IN A FIRE AND ALL YOU CAN COMMENT ON IS THIS HUMAN KILLING A DOG.I AM A DOG LOVER MYSELF SO TAKE IT WRONG, BUT I THINK A HUMAN LIFE IS A LITTLE MORE IMPORTANT THAN AN ANIMAL. WE HAVE ALOT BIGGER PROBLEMS TO DEAL WITH THAN THIS. I CAN GUARANTEE THAT YOU WOULDN'T COPLAIN IF THIS FBI AGENT SHOT A DRUG DEALER TO SAVE ONE OF YOUR LOVED ONES. THEY ARE HUMANS TOO!!!!!! HIM BEING AN OFFICER OF THE LAW DOESN'T MAKE HIM ABOVE ANYONE ELSE OR MAKE HIM FLAWLESS. YOU ALL NEED TO GET A LIFE AND WATCH YOUR GLASS HOUSES, THEY BREAK EASILY!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Posted by: janet Location: texas on Mar 10, 2008 at 07:21 AM
IF HE DO THIS TO ANIMALS, WHAT WOULD HE DO TO HUMANS???

Posted by: jack Location: ga on Mar 10, 2008 at 07:14 AM
To Robert from Germany. People like you are why I think more of animals than humans.

Posted by: ROBERT Location: GERMANY on Mar 10, 2008 at 04:50 AM
LETS SEE HMMMMM IF THE DOG WAS ON A LEASH OR IN ITS OWN YARD I DONT THINK IT WOULD HAVE BEEN SHOT. THERES A THING CALLED LEASH LAWS. I CONGRAULTED THE GUY. I WOULD HAVE SHOT IT TO. ALL THE REST OF THE PEOPLE ON HERE "OH THAT POOR DOG OH" GET A LIFE. ANYWAY I HOPE NOTHING BAD HAPPENS TO THE GUY

Posted by: mary Location: texas on Mar 10, 2008 at 03:07 AM
"HMMMM I am going to sell the Ledger's house to a couple of convicted child molesting, homosexual muslims!" sounds like an improvement to me at least we would know the evil were living next to!

Posted by: yeehaw Location: hooterville on Mar 10, 2008 at 03:04 AM
i love that he did this in front of his son! great parenting skills there dad! maybe he whipped out his unit and said " see son some day you'll be a big man like me then you can kill little helpless critters too"! lol!! where the heck is barney fife in all this? we need a real law enforcement officer!

Posted by: Jason Location: Hewitt on Mar 9, 2008 at 11:43 PM
It was a dog.

Posted by: KC Location: Earth on Mar 9, 2008 at 09:47 PM
Many people here are angry and others are chastising them for their anger which is wrong. I, as well as others, have grown excessively tired of reading, everyday, about a child, an elderly person or an animal being murdered in some heinous fashion. I am weary of seeing people abusing the helpless. Obviously the entire story is not out there, but if he did not discuss this with his neighbors before he shot the dog then he is wrong. It is a neighborly courtesy and for crying out loud it is a temperamental lap rat, my daughter is three and she could throttle one with ease. For those of you who wish to defend his job as a federal agent, he is not above anyone else. In fact I expect better behavior from a federal agent, or a cop or a soldier. Also I have a pump pellet gun myself and you know when you have pumped it to the max. You can easily kill small animals with a pellet gun. Mr. Ledger being a sniper and gun owner knows this or he is not the kind of sniper I would want on my team.

Posted by: Lauren Location: Texas on Mar 9, 2008 at 09:43 PM
There is a lot more to this story than the shooting of a "dog". It is about a person in authority that we are supposed to look up to and know that he will protect us. This "man" (and I use that term lightly) shot an innocent animal - and a Chihuahua at that - where was the threat??? Did the dog raise his leg on the idiot's mailbox or something?? There are lengthy studies that have been done that show people that abuse and treat animals cruely only start with animals - then they move onto people. I'm sure this guy already has. He does not deserve a badge or a gun - he deserves jail and mental health treatment (though it is probably too late). I shudder to think this guy has the power he does.... He is sick and dangerous. As far as it being "just" a dog...well, if that is truly the opinion of some, I pray you open your mind and your heart. There shouldn't be a contest on how worthy a victim of cruelty is or is not.God bless that pup-and any of this guys future victims

Posted by: John Location: Salado on Mar 9, 2008 at 09:25 PM
To L .. my mistake, you do know what this story is about. During your hatred raging comment, you just exposed WHO YOU ARE! LOL ... now that's DUMB!

Posted by: spot Location: red neck on Mar 9, 2008 at 08:54 PM
i think all of the Chihuahuas need to go back to mexico.

Posted by: Concerned Location: TX on Mar 9, 2008 at 08:27 PM
OH MY! The posts from the ( L out of TX ) must be Mr. Ledger! He's so defensive and angry and THREATENING people who've posted here in his neighborhood even mentioned someone by name... "And gee, Mary are you coming forward as a witness?" He says he's going to sell the Ledger House to a couple of convicted child molesting, homosexual muslims! Why would he say all this unless this is HIM??? THE FBI NEEDS TO DO SOMETHING IMMEDIATLY WITH THIS MAN ... HE'S A TICKING TIME BOMB!! I'm truly afraid for this man's neighbors.

Posted by: anonymous on Mar 9, 2008 at 08:17 PM
Did anyone even think the guy was trying to scare the dog away? I bet he has complained to the owners about the dog loose and they did nothing about it. Maybe he just got enough. I think the owners should have to pay his attorneys as had they been responsible owners, none of this would have happened. And maybe that little dog actually bit one of his kids. I believe some of you must have had run-ins with the law and just love to get back at a law enforcement officer. Keep your dogs out of neighbor's yards and please pick up their poop and everyone will be happy. To prevent further episodes of this, fine the owners $1000 for each offense if their dog is off a leash or in someone's yard. When you hit the old pocketbook, things happen.

Posted by: Rick Location: Waco on Mar 9, 2008 at 08:00 PM
I've been reading { L }'s comments on here and on other stories where he brings up this story. Could it be that { L } is agent Ledger himself?? People who know him say he's got an attitude. L's comments certainly reflect that attitude! Come on now and stop the whinning L. Be a big boy and own up to your criminal act and stop blaming other people for your actions.

Posted by: Anonymous on Mar 9, 2008 at 07:00 PM
Oh man you people are classic. It's a dog. Not a child. Not another human being. I bet everyone on here who has cried over the dog being dead is demented because they treat their dogs like children. Dogs need exercise, discipline and then affection. If you go about not disciplining them then they become dominant over you and you are nursing an unhealthy dog. We are the dominant ones it's time you started acting like it and not pampering your pooch.

Posted by: Luke Location: TX on Mar 9, 2008 at 05:08 PM
OMG! laughing at comment of (Chihuahua-vs- Sniper), trying to picture that one in my head! That's funny, sick, but funny!

Posted by: Cindy Location: Belton on Mar 9, 2008 at 04:56 PM
Buck, I've read all the comments here. No one is saying that this crime is more horrible than the ones you mentioned and of course it's not. But, anytime anyone pulls a trigger on anything, there could be severe consequences. I can't go out and shoot the deer in my yard that poop there and eat all my plants! Texas has animal cruelty laws. So please, feel free to leave my Great State if you don't like it's laws.

Posted by: Nec Location: Lorena on Mar 9, 2008 at 04:54 PM
I live in Lorena and in the neighborhood in question (Ranchcrest) and I personally DO NOT feel protected that Mr. Ledger lives in our neighborhood. I feel ONLY Threatened. This is not the first time he has killed a neighbors pet. There is proof and it will come out...

Posted by: bethany Location: Lorena on Mar 9, 2008 at 04:37 PM
what is the whole story about Lovett Leslie Ledger,Jr. It does not seem rigt that a man would be arrested over an animal! It sounds like it was in his yard and it seems like there were no laws broken! please enlighten me! He was not abusing it It sounds like an accidental death!

Posted by: L Location: out of TX on Mar 9, 2008 at 04:35 PM
John-You'll get to hear the rest of the story when the it comes out.Ranchcrest has a bunch of yuppies that cry about lots(suing the HA over something really stupid like people not mowing their yard!) Tell me these people have a clue about what real life! Not ALL of them tho! What about the person whose grandkids were traumatized by some chi's. You should figure out that dogs are NOT humans and someone needs to start taking responsibility for their stuff! I'm sure the people that have a problem with the dog being shot are also the ones who blame the school for your children's lack of education, your parent's for YOUR problems, yep it's always someone else's fault! Very suspect that the criminal element would be glad if he were to lose his job since he's nabbed so many of them!! And gee, Mary are you coming forward as a witness? Hadn't heard of your testimony, who's lying now? HMMMM I am going to sell the Ledger's house to a couple of convicted child molesting, homosexual muslims!

Posted by: Greg Location: Pennsylvania on Mar 9, 2008 at 04:29 PM
HAHAHAHA! Nice shot lol.(Laugh out loud)

Posted by: Jean Location: Dallas on Mar 9, 2008 at 04:05 PM
WOW!!!! It sounds like maybe the sniper hadn't shot anybody lately and got a little too trigger happy when he saw that tiny dog on the road.

Posted by: jay Location: cove on Mar 9, 2008 at 02:49 PM
the agent appears to have a deranged look on his face, hummmm, could it be insanity, remorse or just shocked at being caught and charged with a cruel crime?

Posted by: Liz Location: Cameron on Mar 9, 2008 at 11:53 AM
Marie from Lorena, you are missing the point here. I don't like dogs crapping in my yard either but I'm not going to shoot one unless it's a large aggressive dog. This law man's inability to control himself with a 3 lb chihuahua is what is disturbing. Maybe your barn cats will be next?? Also, your pellet gun must be a cheap one because mine is very accurate.

Posted by: null Location: waco on Mar 9, 2008 at 11:50 AM
Shooting a family pet is one thing, shooting it in front of your child, even worse. I don't feel sorry for Mr. Ledger, but I do feel sorry for his family and the other families that have lived in fear of him in Ranchcrest.

Posted by: Basil Fawlty Location: Texas on Mar 9, 2008 at 10:52 AM
Cruelty to Animals is a sign of a deeper psychosis. I suspect this is the case here. A thorough background investigation should identify this abnormality.

Posted by: Kevin Location: Gatesville on Mar 9, 2008 at 09:36 AM
This is to Tony in Waco. Since when has dog lovers been hippies? A little advice ----Don't say that out loud around any redneck holding a shotgun with his best hunting buddy hound sitting next to him! Geeezz what a moron!

Posted by: saddened Location: waco on Mar 9, 2008 at 08:28 AM
my dogs are members of my family. i love them and they love me. they are always so happy to see me when i come home from work. they protect me from snakes, strangers and grizzly squirrels. they would die or kill to save me from harm. and yet they are gentle and loving with everyone who is not a threat. they are so greatful for their food and shelter and they cheer me when i'm sad. like now. dogs feel every emotion people do. if the fence blew down, eg, and my dogs got out, i would be terrified for their safety, scared of cars running over them. scared that some gunhappy fool might shoot them, unfortunately sometimes--just for sport. how it must hurt the family who lost their little dog to such a uncaring, unfeeling act. i am appalled at the number of people who take a cavalier attitude toward this. dogs are living, loving beings. and there are people who love them. if you don't care about the dog, can you care a little about the dog's people?

Posted by: Susan Location: Waco on Mar 9, 2008 at 08:18 AM
I would to thank the McLennan County Sheriff’s Office for charging this FBI agent and not letting him (off the hook) on this cruel act. To think of what message that would've sent to all the boys out there that own bb/pellet guns, especially in the Lorena area is very scary. Again, Thank You

Posted by: citizen Location: Waco on Mar 9, 2008 at 08:13 AM
Hey everyone let's look at the basic human being we are dealing with here. We are talking about a person that took an oath which meant he would upon command pull a trigger and end a human life, no matter what he judgement of the situation is. Let's face it he is a litle twisted and not quite playing with a full deck to begin with.

Posted by: the truth Location: here on Mar 8, 2008 at 11:22 PM
Keep your pets in your own yard or home and this doesn't happen. A dead dog is a good dog, and that goes for cats as well. If you can't keep them at home then shame on you. Thank goodness he is such a good shot and didn't miss and hit a window.

Posted by: larry Location: hewitt on Mar 8, 2008 at 11:21 PM
If this guy sits and waits on dogs that come down the street and shoots a little dog. What will he do with a regular gun, shoot a child or another adult. He does have issues and the FBI should give him a mental evaluation. This is a FBI agent, supposed to be highly trained. I guess they also train them to shoot innocent dogs. He needs to be held accountable to the fullest extent of the law. period. no excuse for shooting a little dog. Yes i have a chihuahua. To the previous post. You think this guy saves lifes. Ae you kidding me. He just might shoot you for walking down the street.

Posted by: Jason Location: Hewitt on Mar 8, 2008 at 10:52 PM
All this over a dog?! No wonder other countries resent Americans.

Posted by: Ashley Location: Austin on Mar 8, 2008 at 10:37 PM
WOW! Agent Ledger actually thought shooting a very small dog in front of his son was the appropriate thing to do? I have to agree with the comments that he may need some kind of psychological help. When teenage boys go around doing this very thing to animals, experts say they are mentally disturbed.

Posted by: bonnie nielsen Location: CALIF on Mar 8, 2008 at 10:19 PM
FROM READING THE OTHER'S COMMENTS THEY ARE MORE CONCERNED ABOUT A DOG BEING SHOT THAN A PERSON BEING KILLED I THINK IT IS WRONG FOR ANY THING BEING KILLED OR SHOT. BUT THAT IS JUST MY OPION PEOPLE JUST DON'T CARE A HUMAN OR ANIMALS LIFE ANYMORE. IT JUST MEANS NOTHING. THIS COUNTRY UNITED STATES OF AMERICA NEEDS TO STAND UP AND CARE ABOUT HTE HUMAN RACE AGAIN AND LET OTHER COUNTRIES WORRY ABOUT THEIR OWN PROBLEMS.

Posted by: Daniel Location: Mclennan CO on Mar 8, 2008 at 09:42 PM
FBI SAVE LIVES? That is a crock... Ask Randy Weaver how the FBI saved his wife and sons lives... or why dont you take a drive out to the remains on the Davidian church and see how many lives they "saved". The FBI thinks they are above the law.. this is just a small reflection of there minds. Shoot First.. the FBI policy...

Posted by: Sue Location: Eddy on Mar 8, 2008 at 09:11 PM
Rick, { L } is just some Jr. High kid that has no friends and no parental support at home. He has no idea what he's talking about and just uses the internet to vent his rage. His pc is his only friend. Just ignore this loser.

Posted by: Sue Location: Eddy on Mar 8, 2008 at 08:44 PM
Marie, you make a good point. Pellet/BB guns are not as accurate as a sniper rifle. So I like the idea of having him as an FBI agent, that means he can hit what he is aiming at. So many of you are hacked off that he killed a dog before you know the whole story. How do we know that he hadn't talked to the owners previously about their dog? How do we know that he had not called the so called proper authorities on other occasions? Why aren't there almost 80 comments about the pregnant woman who was killed from behind with a baseball bat? Pretty sad commentary on our times when more people are getting worked up over the death of a dog than an unborn child and its mother. Put things in perspective.

Posted by: John Location: Salado on Mar 8, 2008 at 08:29 PM
TO L - You are talking about larger dogs. You're just too dumb to understand what this story is really about.

Posted by: Cindy Location: Belton on Mar 8, 2008 at 08:17 PM
BUCK ... get a life and an education! TONY ... you shouldn't be allowed to own a pet except, maybe ... a rattle snake!

Posted by: Police Supporter Too Location: TX on Mar 8, 2008 at 08:11 PM
The SHERIFF would NOT have charged this agent (without) evidence of animal cruelty. I do believe that the owners should be fined for having a loose dog ... BUT this dog was NO big vicious pitbull ready to kill someone. The agent's actions were DEPLORABLE. McLennan Co. Sheriff's dept. knew this. THAT'S WHY THIS AGENT HAS BEEN CHARGED WITH CRIMINAL ACTIVITY. THERE'S NO DOCUMENTATION ANYWHERE WHERE A CHIHUAHUA HAS KILLED OR SEVERLY INJURED A PERSON. ( Or anything for that matter).

Posted by: Rick Location: Waco on Mar 8, 2008 at 07:42 PM
HEY L ... another STUPID comment. GROW UP What's the matter, can't post your real name... LOL Do everyone a favor and get off this message board. You're sounding like DUMB & DUMBER.

Posted by: Susie Location: Central Texas on Mar 8, 2008 at 07:18 PM
My neighbor shot both of my dogs for being down at his house! I didn't go "RUNNING" to the police! The dogs got out and that is that! We are still friends and if YOUR dog is at my house....I would kill it too! TOO many strays around anyway! How are you to know WHO they belong to?

Posted by: Susan Location: SC on Mar 8, 2008 at 07:00 PM
This "man" should be charged and fined the maximum. For those of you who can read, you would know that a person who would harm an animal would also harm a child. (research proven) Would you want this guy on your street near your children?

Posted by: get it right Location: nowhere near Waco on Mar 8, 2008 at 06:49 PM
Good folks of Waco - this was a horrible event and al ot of folks are going to have to deal with the actions - the poor little girl who loved the dog,the neighbors who are now divided over hte event, and yes enven the FBI Agent (and his family - if he has one). But get the facts straight - I have done some reading on this, the affadavit fiked by the Sheriff's Department and no where in it did it say the Agent lied to the police over the event - if the Agent was half way intelligent (questionable after the act of shooting a 3 lb dog) he would have kept his mounth shut and called an attorney. I think the "lie" was to neighbors when approached.

Posted by: tony Location: waco on Mar 8, 2008 at 06:47 PM
if all you hippie dog lovers would shut up and put your minds to something that actually mattered maybe you could get something done. Make the man pay a fine and let him get back to SAVING LIVES. I have a chihuahua named boo-boo but if he shot my dog I would want him to pay for it,then I would want him to get back to his job, after all, It's just a dog.

Posted by: Janice Location: Kempner on Mar 8, 2008 at 06:38 PM
What a tragedy. Until we hear all of the story, maybe we should pray for all involved.

Posted by: Mr. El Segundo Location: Fort Worth, TX on Mar 8, 2008 at 04:46 PM
I am sure there is more than meets the eye here. However he did lie on a law enforcement affidavit and he did kill a 3-4 pound animal that was not a threat. That's twisted.

Posted by: Al Location: McGregor on Mar 8, 2008 at 04:05 PM
Wow! Some of you actually think a person should have his life and his family's lives ruined over shooting a DOG. That is more an indictment of society than anything. [/shakes head]

Posted by: Mary Location: Lorena on Mar 8, 2008 at 02:57 PM
The dog did not "roam" the neighborhood, it got out of the fence while the family was at school/work. The dog was NOT in Ledger's yard, it was on the street. Ledger LIED in a sworn affidavit to law enforcement, the very law he was trained to enforce. And does it not bother anyone that he did this in front of his young son? Others in Ranchcrest have reported missing animals, HMMMMM.

Posted by: Marie Location: Lorena on Mar 8, 2008 at 01:37 PM
This man lives in the country where there are no lease laws. It's also not against the law to shoot out here whether with a pellet gun or sniper rifle. What authority should he have called??? That would be McLennan County Sheriffs Dept, who might show up and might not. I'm sure it would have been a good 20 to 30 min for them to respond. I live on several acres and hate for other peoples dogs to come onto my property--they dig holes in the pasture (which my horses could step in), chase my barn cats and wild rabbits. I shoot the dogs with a pellet rifle, usually aiming for their butts to make them leave my property. It is disgusting to step out of my house and encounter a pile of dog poop when I'm surrounded by acres and acres of grass. Also, a pellet gun is not as accurate a shot as a real gun no matter how much of an expert you are in shooting.

Posted by: L Location: out of TX on Mar 8, 2008 at 01:19 PM
Hey Rick seems you're a little hot about something, could it be the dwi (dui up north), mj, or adultery that got you upset. Should I take that line about getting shot as a threat? Cause you know what, I'd like to see you try! If my dogs get out, I expect them not to come back, and I have much time and money invested in mine. I love my dogs, but they are just dogs. If ANY of you have read the posts from people that HAVE chi's you would acknowledge that they can be very mean. Guess it would be a different case if a child had been hurt by that 'little doggie'. But why should you have to wait for that to happen?

Posted by: Anonymous on Mar 8, 2008 at 01:18 PM
There is alot more to this story than meets the eye. I do know how agent Ledger behaves beyond this incident and it is more of the same. This is definitely an FBI agent who took things into his own hands and will and should pay the ultimate price.

Posted by: S Location: Saint Louis on Mar 8, 2008 at 01:08 PM
That is horrible. And did bozo provide a reason he shot a little dog with a pellet gun? Not that it matters, it should have never happened. This guy has some mental health issues and something just doesn't sound right.

Posted by: Anonymous on Mar 8, 2008 at 12:46 PM
Obviously this guy has issues, regardless of what he does for a living. To shoot an innocent animal automatically is absurd. Whether you like animals or not, other measures could be taken to get the dog off his property. Like for instance clapping your hands or using a hose. To just up and kill someone's LOST PET or even a stray that is misfortuned is cruel and violent. I hope that man is publicly punished for his actions so other people can learn from his aggressive behavior. Hopefully something legal can be done against this violent ill tempered man. The man obviously has no regard for others and is a moral nightmare. That is scary how he is trained to kill and would kill an innocent animal at the drop of a hat for WHATEVER reason. Obviously his life wasn't threatened by a tiny dog. So what was the reason he did this cruel act? We might not get the full story, but the outcome sure isn't pretty.

Posted by: Lynn Location: Waco on Mar 8, 2008 at 12:31 PM
Well said Gayle!! I have a 3 lb Chihuahua and I can't even get my pinky in his mouth and I'm a woman with small hands.

Posted by: Chase Location: Clifton on Mar 8, 2008 at 12:20 PM
GEEEZZ people ... It's a Chihuahua! Throw a coat over him, take him to his owners or call Animal Control. This is SICK. I just wonder how many children witnessed this Cruel Killing?

Posted by: Bet Location: TX on Mar 8, 2008 at 12:09 PM
MY OH MY! This man as some very serious issues other than an annoying little Chihuahua. Hope he gets the mental help he needs.

Posted by: Marie Location: Harker Heights on Mar 8, 2008 at 12:03 PM
If this had been your average Joe in the neighborhood, it's wouldn't have made the news. This man is a Officer of the Law and a professional killer. He knows his weapons throughly. He knew the minute he pulled that trigger it was a dead dog. He also had to have known the proper channels to go through if he had a pesky little dog around. This is why the puplic is outraged!!

Posted by: Buck Location: TX on Mar 8, 2008 at 11:54 AM
Guess he should have beat the owner up, or gotten drunk or run the neighbor over- cause he might be facing a lesser charge or at least the same charge and we would be using our tax dollars to prosecute an actual crime!! How can any SANE person state this act to be more horrific than- assault of a PERSON, threat of TERRORISM, *INDECENT EXPOSURE*, DWI, STALKING (these are all misdemeanors)?? At the same time you are equating this act of killing an animal to- criminally negligent HOMICIDE (person), criminal mischief up to $20,000, BURGLARY, & FORGERY. TX has some messed up laws, before you do anything you better research the law. Heaven help you when there is real criminal activity and no one to protect you because the law enforcement is chasing down stray dogs & property defenders!

Posted by: Allie Location: Texas on Mar 8, 2008 at 11:38 AM
The gist of this whole situation is that this man is emotionally damaged in some way. It played out in his taking the life of a tiny, helpless animal.......I guess better that than having it play out in the killing of a person. He needs counseling. There's more to his story than meets the eye.

Posted by: Leslie Location: Copperas Cove on Mar 8, 2008 at 11:36 AM
Seems like with his training he would have better self control and know to call proper authorities about a wandering dog. He made a bad decision and will have to face the consequences. It is unfortunate and I'm sure he regrets it.

Posted by: Police Supporter Location: Central Texas on Mar 8, 2008 at 11:21 AM
For small dogs they can be extremely vicious. People that care about their dogs don't let them run loose for everyone to deal with. As for the post from "criminal", It's good to see you got off of my-space where you look for children to molest or college girls to rape long enoug to read the news.

Posted by: bc Location: texas on Mar 8, 2008 at 10:52 AM
Pleeeease wait for the WHOLE story before passing judgement! Jeesh!

Posted by: Kathie Location: kempner on Mar 8, 2008 at 10:37 AM
I think we should all wait for the rest of the story. I dont believe he meant to kill the dog. But frankly those little dogs are a terror! Every one I have ever come in contact with was quick to growl and snap! I dont blame him for not wanting that dog near his children. Small is hardly an excuse for allowing a dog loose to roam. And such a tempermental breed to boot.

Posted by: Divad Location: Gulf Coast on Mar 8, 2008 at 10:04 AM
Just like Lon Horiuchi "didn't intend" to kill Randy Weaver's dog or his nursing wife. HRT snipers are homicidal maniacs with badges and taxpayer funded paychecks. Yep a fierce chihuahua was shot for entertainment but THE DOG was on the other side of the gun.

Posted by: stephanie Location: waco on Mar 8, 2008 at 09:58 AM
I hope he does not keep his poistion with the FBI. Because i sure don't feel safe with him in that position. I am a animal lover my pets are part of the family my heart goes out to the owners of the little dog.

Posted by: s Location: waco on Mar 8, 2008 at 09:47 AM
I have raised chihuahua`s for many years, yes they are tempramental and yes, some do have serious attitudes. But to shoot a 3lb chihuahua? Geez come on. I really don`t think that a 3 lb dog can cause much problem, other than making a lot of noise. Now, if it were a Pit bull, German Sheppard, or a Rot, something that weighs as much as a person, I could see it causing a problem. This story would then be a little more easier to understand. My question to the idiot is why didnt he just call the sheriff1s department and let them handle with the owners, instead of taking matters into his own hands. Which we all see that he wasn`t capable of making the right decision. And to think, He is part of the FBI...scary huh?

Posted by: Rick Location: Waco on Mar 8, 2008 at 09:28 AM
THIS IS TO L & BUCK. Your comments are so ridiculous, it's no wonder why you won't put your town's name. Afraid someone will figure out who you are and shoot your #@@ with a pellet gun? Let's see ----Chihuahua vs Sniper ---- that's no contest and NO accident. There's a "reason" why this man was charged with animal cruelty. Yeah, high school is over, too bad you didn't learn to READ!

Posted by: Larry Location: Waco on Mar 8, 2008 at 09:00 AM
There are City Ordinances against dogs running loose within city limits. There are City Ordinances against shooting firearms (including air guns) within city limits. The question here in this case is, "Which one was more dangerous, the little Chihuahua or a Sniper with a Gun"?? It doesn't say that the dog was provoking anyone. Sounds to me like the dog was "target practice". This guy saw the opportunity to teach (his skills) to his kids on a live moving target. This is SCARY & CRIMINAL activity!

Posted by: Gayle Location: Texas on Mar 8, 2008 at 08:54 AM
I fail to see how Agent Ledger felt that he had the right to shoot any animal that was not a threat to him or his family. As the owner of a 7 lb. Chihuahua, I can tell you that even if the dog was acting "aggressive", its mouth wouldn't open big enough to bite...unless Agent Ledger was to stick his pinky finger in its mouth. Did he think that because he was an FBI Agent that he was above the Letter of the Law?????

Posted by: S Location: Missouri on Mar 8, 2008 at 08:48 AM
First things first. Arrest all the people that have murdered unborn human beings, and then we can go after those that kill lower life forms. Yeah, how about unborn human cruelty?

Posted by: Deana Location: Lorena on Mar 8, 2008 at 08:23 AM
Silly me! Recently I picked up my neighbors dog and took it to the vet. after finding it in the road having been injured by a car. It cost me about $400.00, and the owners won't respond to my calls or letters. Not so much as a thank you! I just did the 'right thing'. It never even crossed my mind to simply shot the dog... what was I thinking??? It wouldn't have cost me as much! I hope that there are better poeple out there then this!!

Posted by: Cindy Location: Belton on Mar 8, 2008 at 08:18 AM
Some people on this post are just plain STUPID. The man was a "snipper". He knew excactly where to shoot this little dog to kill him. And YES, pellet guns can & do kill small animals (including small dogs). Chihuahuas do yap alot .. I know .. I HAVE ONE. He probably just got tired of the yapping and decided to kill him. For all you people out there that think 3-4 lb Chihuahuas can actually do (real) harm to children .... GET A 80 lb PIT BULL!!! The man is getting what he deserves ... shooting a little dog that was just WALKING ON THE ROAD is pathetic & sick!! But, I'm sure he didn't think twice before pulling that trigger on a dog since his (job) is to KILL PEOPLE. And for all you IDIOTS on here .. if your children ever get attacked by a LARGE dog, you'll forever WISH it had been a small CHIHUAHUA!!

Posted by: George Location: Copperas Cove, TX on Mar 8, 2008 at 08:05 AM
On the same page of news there is an elderly man that shot a 15 year old for crossing his yard, causing the death of his mother while transporting him to the hospital and there is only 2 comments. I am also appaled at the person calling Mr Ledger a PIG. This man protects us, along with all the other law enforcement officers. We called Coryell Co Sheriff recently for a large dog in our garage and were told "Shoot it". There was no intent to kill here and the only reason there are all these comments is because he is a law enforcement officer. It seems that if a person with a non public servant job makes a mistake they are in little print, when its a public servant they have to print the name and occupation in bold. There is a leash law, however, we don't hear that the owner was cited for that. Get over it and let us public servants protect you! If we make a mistake we pay more at our jobs than you will ever know. Mr. Ledger, You have our support. Thank you for your service.

Posted by: Greg Location: Local on Mar 8, 2008 at 07:58 AM
I am glad to see someone taking action against those pesky packs of chihuahua. I do not care if it is a small dog or a large dog in my yard if it is a problem to me it is a dead dog. I have a small dog and when it goes outside it is in a fenced yard. It never runs loose without supervision. Because I know if she did I would be taking my chances. Not everyone likes my dog as much as I do and I would hate to loose her to a bullet, car, owel, or coyote. Lost a couple of cats that way but that is no big deal. They were just cats. I did like one of them. Oh well. Go FBI Guy!!!!

Posted by: C Location: Texas on Mar 8, 2008 at 06:24 AM
Oh my goodness, the DRAMA of it all! First of all, who cares!! Secondly, don't be bringing his family into this. Or, maybe because of his family that's why this is being made into such a big deal. People love their dogs, I get that. I have one of my own. I am not afraid of him getting loose because he's so friendly that my neighbors just love him. Makes you wonder what kind of little **** the dog was in order for a neighbor to go to that length to get him off his property. I put chi's in the same category as rots and pits. You can't trust them unless you know them VERY well!! Crazy, mean little dogs!!

Posted by: Mark Location: Robinson on Mar 8, 2008 at 06:01 AM
didn't mean to kill it? give me a break him being a sniper he nows exactly what he was doing when he did it.this about its in my yard so i can kill it? what happened to letting the owners know to put it up? That would be the neighborly thing to do wouldn't it? guess not to some of you hey shoot first then ask questions later.

Posted by: Ray Location: Cove on Mar 8, 2008 at 04:24 AM
The man made a mistake and didn't mean to kill the dog.Is it really neccessary to destroy a mans career over a dog!!!!

Posted by: C Location: Waco on Mar 8, 2008 at 12:23 AM
OK...I have owned a few Chihuahuas and they can be very mean dogs. I used to have a teacup and every time she went outside I went with her so nothing could happen. If this puppy's owners were as worried about their dog while it was alive then maybe it would still be alive. I think that it is funny that some of you are saying "it is just a Chihuahua" I bet that if it was a pit bull or some other kind of "dangerous" dog all of you would be agreeing with what he did. I don't care who he is or what he does for a living and I don't think it has anything to do with him killing the puppy. I agree with More to it? if he really wanted to kill the puppy he could have used an actual gun! People get over it!!! A puppy is dead and that is sad but maybe now the owners will keep track of their animals, they wouldn't let their children go off and do whatever they wanted wherever they wanted, would they?

Posted by: DJ Location: Iraq on Mar 8, 2008 at 12:16 AM
Watch this case; this individual will get the book thrown at him when others can sell drugs to our kids and get off; anyway no mercy in my eyes for the pets owner who allows their animals to run free and run into other peoples property it is unfortunate he did not shot the pet owners with the BB gun they are the ones who should be held accountable.

Posted by: hope Location: rogers on Mar 8, 2008 at 12:11 AM
hey null you live in waco people kill people there everyday and steal everyday and rape people everyday. you must not love your kids to stay there.

Posted by: Vaughn Location: Wisconsin on Mar 8, 2008 at 12:00 AM
Interestingly enough, none of the animal lovers will admit that the little dogs are just as vicious as the big ones can be. Using a pellet gun in any neighborhood is good sense, as opposed to shooting a centerfire pistol, rifle or shotgun. Pellets won't do as much damage to people if he misses. As for the dog, why was it off leash? Roaming at large? If in the agent's yard and biting at my kids, that dog would be shot, period. I've been bitten by two little dogs in the past and never by a big one...to tell me that the 'itty bitty' dogs can't hurt you...grow up and pull your head out.

Posted by: Deb Location: Texas on Mar 7, 2008 at 11:30 PM
I can't believe how some people can justify this. He is an FBI SNIPER, my gosh, he is responsible for killing people from a far distance, and he didn't think he pumped a BB gun too much. If he doesn't know how to handle a BB gun, maybe a REAL gun is too much for him. Maybe the dog was in he's yard or after he's kids. Is there a police report with pass complaints? Maybe he was bored, and did something he now wishes he didn't, but got caught.

Posted by: renee Location: cove on Mar 7, 2008 at 11:27 PM
i can understand being fed up with a neighborhood pet that is nothing more than a pest as my neighbor's dog digs under my fence and comes into my yard! all i can ask here is why lie about it at first? if the lies were told to federal agents in this investigation he will probably be in deeper doodoo than that dog could ever deposit on his yard! its a shame he let his frustration and anger get the best of him as there are several legal avenues he could have used to fix this! what a shame. hey CHRIS please hit the caps lock key till the little light goes off before you type. it will make your brilliant posts easier to read! thank you!

Posted by: null Location: close on Mar 7, 2008 at 10:35 PM
Trust me, if he is "one of our best", we are really in trouble...

Posted by: Daniel on Mar 7, 2008 at 10:32 PM
The Feds think they can do anything they they want to and get away with it. Just look how they murdered innocent people right here in Mclennan county when they burned down the Davidian Church. Remember FBI sniper Lon Horuchi who killed Vicki Weaver while whe was holding her INFANT! This is just a reflection of the mindset of these Feds.. shoot first! I hope this guy gets jail time for this, and with a cell mate named "Bubba"! SHAME ON YOU!

Posted by: mark Location: temple on Mar 7, 2008 at 10:22 PM
what he did was wrong. do not try to justify taking a life of an animal who was in no way a harm to him or his family. imagine if it were your dog. i can assure you someones heart was broke.

Posted by: Jerry Location: Gatesville on Mar 7, 2008 at 10:08 PM
Wow! Some of you are pretty bitter. Null, what you are saying is nonsensical. It's a huge leap to say a guy treats his kids a certain way because he kills a dog in his yard. I live in the country, too. Dogs that roam in the country are fair game. That's the way it's always been. Just because people want someone to blame, this is suddenly some horrific crime. Maybe the dog's owners should be the ones charged with cruelty. They are the ones who let the dog out. If it had gotten run over instead, would they still be out for blood? It's a freaking dog. A loose dog! This guy puts his life on the line every day chasing bad guys, and some people are acting like he's a mass murderer. Please get a sense of proportion.

Posted by: Kay Location: Copperas Cove on Mar 7, 2008 at 09:49 PM
How could anybody think his intent was to kill the dog with a pellet gun? The MEDIA is having a field day with this one and adding as much fuel to the flame as it can poor on.

Posted by: mike Location: temple on Mar 7, 2008 at 08:14 PM
if the dog is on my land, i will shot him to. and to criminal i will not lose my job. i work for my self.

Posted by: Mel Location: Waco on Mar 7, 2008 at 06:54 PM
There are two Chihuahuas that terrorize our neighborhood and there are many times I wish I had a bb gun to scare them away. He wasn't shooting at a child, but at a dog that was probably wreaking havoc in the neighborhood. It's a shame that the dog was killed, but if the owner had taken responsibility for his or her dog and kept it penned up, it never would have happened.

Posted by: null Location: Waco on Mar 7, 2008 at 06:53 PM
I'm sure there is more to the story. Like how he has probably done this before, just didn't get caught...what about his kids, I feel sorry for them to think they have a father who doesn't have enough self control to walk across the street and tell a neighbor their dog is out and in his yard. I wonder how he treats his children, probably not much better than this poor little dog. He should face charges just like anyone else, it doesn't matter where he works, just makes it more appalling that he is supposed to a professional working for the federal government.

Posted by: Cathy Location: Teague, Texas on Mar 7, 2008 at 06:49 PM
My oh my lets not have a witch hunt. Chihuahuas are very tempermental, He said he didn't mean to kill it and he oppologized. My nephew was bit by a family pet Chihuahua but not bad, It just scared him. My grandson and granddaughter was chased by a Chihuahua last week. no one really got hurt but kids were scared. Both dogs are not allowed out without a leash now. But kids are still insecure. Maybe we better wait to hear as Paul Harvey would say the rest of the story. He might just happen to be a dad who was tired of the dog messing with his kids trying to play outside. I would hate to see one of our best who was trying to protect his kids will he wasn't on duty protecting us lose his job from trying to scare a dog off. I love my pets to and it hurts to lose one, but guys come on it was not intentional. But being off the leash was.

Posted by: John Location: Eddy on Mar 7, 2008 at 06:45 PM
It doesnt matter where he works,the owners of the dog are responsible.in rural areas it is a common complaint that the neighbors dog is in your yard.If there is no animal control you should have the right to take action.It is his yard and the dog is loose,if it was a pitbull or rot.he would be a hero.ultimatley the dogs owner is responsible for the dogs death and the agent was accurate,and well within his rights.enough with the what if's

Posted by: GW Location: Temple on Mar 7, 2008 at 06:30 PM
What an uncaring, unfeeling automaton! It is unfortunate that peoples lives are in this hands of this so called public servant. Who would want to hurt a little bitty dog that lacks the capacity to seriously hurt you? Is this the kind of man that should be trusted to make judgements of what shot to take or not on another human? He should be stripped of his status as a sniper and rendered unfit for duty. We all need to hold the government accountable for this.

Posted by: Buck Location: TX on Mar 7, 2008 at 06:24 PM
Hey Linda, the last time I checked the SWAT team didn't need to pump their guns! Where were the 'poor little doggies' owners? Obviously they only seemed to care when they could blame someone else. If your dog is crapping in someone elses yard you don't have to clean it up, right? Hey COVITE & hmmmmm- need to get out and get a life, highschool is OVER!!!

Posted by: L Location: out of TX on Mar 7, 2008 at 06:02 PM
Guess those of you who choose to defend a 'blameless' dog don't have any problem with killing innocent children, or illegal aliens either. And of course you have NEVER done anything wrong... a little mj, dui, adultery. Whose casting stones and living in the glass house? Or maybe it's easier to take cheap shots at someone than look at your own lives, or something important like the economy, elections, anything? Guess y'all don't support our troops either, seems like the biggest losers are the ones happy about this!

Posted by: Lorena resident Location: Lorena, Texas on Mar 7, 2008 at 05:17 PM
This is a sad situation for all involved and I certainly do not know the complete story. There are a lot of maybe's or what ifs in this incident. However, this is a only a Chihuahua! I personally think there was a much better way this could have been resolved; a way for all involved to have had a much more positive outcome!

Posted by: Jimmy Location: Belton on Mar 7, 2008 at 05:16 PM
So, if it had been a large dog, it would have been justified? Who cares that it was a small dog? It was in his yard. Too bad the city annexed my property, or I would be piling up animals in my neighborhood.

Posted by: courtney Location: copperas cove on Mar 7, 2008 at 04:38 PM
People have gotten really careless with their pets these days and let them run wild, messing up other people's property and endangering other people's children. I feel bad for the dog and its family, but he never should have been out wondering around the neighborhood in the first place.

Posted by: Criminal Location: Killeen on Mar 7, 2008 at 04:26 PM
I'm glad they arrested that pig. Now he will know what he has put others through. By the way, you'll lose your job PIG.

Posted by: robin Location: cove on Mar 7, 2008 at 04:23 PM
please. if he was a thug from da hood, all of you would want him to be lynched! this goes to show that $$$ doesnt buy good judgement or common sense!!! he had options other than shooting the dog if there were problems with the dog being loose! the owners should have kept better track of their dog but dogs do get loose! would be a different story if there was an imminent to children or himself. then again how much of a tool do you have to be to take down a Chihuahua!

Posted by: J Location: Waco on Mar 7, 2008 at 04:20 PM
I am sure there is much more to this story. I dont think anyone would jsut shoot a dog because its in his yard.. He must have had ongoing problems with it. Its bad for all involved though. I sure would hate to lose one of my dogs like this, but i dont let them go outside of the yard unsupervised either..

Posted by: CHRIS Location: COPPERAS COVE on Mar 7, 2008 at 03:28 PM
I CAN TELL YOU IF THERE WAS ANY ANIMAL THAT WAS MESSING WITH MY KIDS I WOULD SHOOT THEM TOO. IF IT IS ON MY PROPERTY I HAVE THE RIGHT IN TEXAS TO PROTECT MY FAMILY.... DON'T CARE WHAT HIS JOB IS, HE HAS A RIGHT TO PROTECT HIS FAMILY. THE OWNER NEEDS TO TAKE RESPONSABILITY AND KEEP THERE PET IN THERE OWN YARD... IF MORE PEOPLE TOOK RESPONSABILITY OF THERE OWN ACTION WE WOULD HAVE LESS PROBLEMS IN THE AREA...

Posted by: More to it? Location: Central Texas on Mar 7, 2008 at 03:07 PM
"what if it had been a small child out there?" Are you implying that the Agent is a threat to children? I think that is a ludicrous accusation...unless you have some evidence that he has ever injured or threatened a person, and I'm sure you don't. Linda, FBI agents do not use pellet guns in the line of duty. Pretty sure shooting a loose dog in your yard is completely unrelated to using Bureau weapons against criminals. I would imagine if he were actually trying to kill the dog, he could have chosen a weapon of a little higher caliber. Then again, maybe I'm crazy.

Posted by: Deana Location: Lorena on Mar 7, 2008 at 02:48 PM
Silly me, here I go around taking my neighbors puppy to the vet after finding it in the road, hit by a car. To the tune of almost $500.00 that I'll never see! Not even a thank you, nothing in response to several letters. I could have just shot it! Silly me!!!

Posted by: covite Location: cove on Mar 7, 2008 at 02:42 PM
if there were problems with the dog, there were people he could have contacted to take care of it that wouldnt have resulted in the dogs death. i have kids playing in my yard all the time. they leave trash, tear up my lawn with their bikes and such as well as bother my young child i.e. bullying. they obviously arent under the control of their parents so do i have the right to shoot them? and before you start screaming theres a difference between humans and animals, i know that and am just giving an example. then again the one big difference is that humans have the ability to think things through and make decisions! just what law enforcement needs: a sniper with a itchy trigger finger! lol gotta love it!

Posted by: T Location: Waco on Mar 7, 2008 at 02:36 PM
Im sure hes intent was not to kill. Who cares what kind of job he has, just like EVERYONE else in this world you get tired of messing with other peoples responsibility. Why was a 3-4 lb Chihuahua walking down the road? I guess instead of shooting it, maybe he wouldnt be in trouble if he ran over it. People need to learn to take responsibility for their own properties. Dont blame him, where were the owners?

Posted by: Linda Location: Marlin on Mar 7, 2008 at 02:15 PM
OK Let Me Get This Stright. He is a sniper for the FBI Squat Team and he thinks he must have "pumped the gun to much" that is scary. This is awful for the poor little dog and his owners, what if it had been a small child out there? He sould not be allowed to be a law enforcement person.

Posted by: Anonymous on Mar 7, 2008 at 02:13 PM
talk about throwing your career away... but if the dog was under the control of the owner this would not have happened.

Posted by: citizen Location: texas on Mar 7, 2008 at 02:09 PM
Maybe he was tired of the dog doing his business in his yard. By the looks of his neighborhood I'll bet they have leash laws. The owners who turned their pet out unsupervised are just as much to blame. Pet owners need to responcible for their four legged family members.It is unfortunate the outcome as there are clearly no winners in this situation only losers. We do not put up with marauding "pets" at our home. Thankfully we live on 110 acres,but our 2 yrd old Grandson likes to play outside a lot. Even with a fence around the yard you can't be too careful. I am sorry for all parties involved.

Posted by: More to it? Location: Central Texas on Mar 7, 2008 at 02:03 PM
I think there's a little more to this story. The dog had been in the suspect's yard, which is where it was actually shot. It had also been getting after his young children. The area in question is not a city subdivision. Maybe we should wait for both sides of the story before the witch hunt begins.

Posted by: Michelle Location: Cove on Mar 7, 2008 at 01:53 PM
WOW!!!! I am stunned. The Ledger family is the pillar of the Copperas Cove community. What happened to him and what was he thinking? What did the dog do to deserve death? The owners of the dog should be able to use HIS pellet gun on HIM!

Posted by: COVITE Location: COPPERAS COVE on Mar 7, 2008 at 12:43 PM
THAT IS VERY SAD HE WOULD DO THAT TO A LITTLE CHIHUAHUA. I AM SORRY FOR THE FAMILY OF THE DOGGIE. AND FOR HIS BROTHER TO BE A VET AND HIS FAMILY WELL KNOWN- ON TOP OF BEING FBI! R.I.P. LITTLE CHI

Posted by: hmmm Location: cove on Mar 7, 2008 at 12:04 PM
his brother is a veterinarian...how ironic!!! maybe he should have gone into the family business and sold furniture!

Posted by: JEN on Mar 7, 2008 at 11:49 AM
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