Va. state trooper charged with shooting, killing pit bull

MANASSAS PARK, Va. (AP) -- A Virginia state trooper has been charged with animal cruelty after local police say he shot and killed a pit bull.

Manassas Park Police on Monday announced charges against 28-year-old Christopher D. Campbell, who is assigned to the Fairfax division of Virginia State Police.

On March 8, Manassas Park Police responded to calls from residents who heard gunshots. Officers found a tan pit bull suffering from single gunshot wound. The dog died at an animal hospital.

Police say they identified Campbell as a suspect after receiving information from Virginia State Police.

A state police spokeswoman says Campbell has been placed on unpaid leave.

In addition to animal cruelty, Campbell is also charged with public discharge of a firearm. Both charges are misdemeanors.