
Cruel and Disturbing Violence In Williston, North Dakota
It's a sickening feeling in your stomach when you hear and read about what happened in Williston, ND two days ago
Anger and violence simply do not mix - I'm pretty sure we all understand that. We are human and prone to losing our temper - an incident that happened just two days ago has left me sick. I have great respect for police, who along with putting on their uniform every day, also put their lives on the line as well.
Pulling up to a volatile situation
According to the Williston Police Department North Dakota Facebook page:
Williston Resident Faces Charges After Neighbor’s Dog Shot
On August 21, 2024, at approximately 10:34 AM, the Williston Police Department responded to a report of an altercation involving firearms in the 1700 Block of 29th St W. Dispatch informed officers that two males were involved, both armed with handguns, and that one of the individuals had shot and killed a dog.
Upon arrival, officers observed the two males engaged in a heated verbal exchange, both with weapons drawn. Following commands from law enforcement, the individuals eventually complied and were safely detained. The individuals were identified as Ricky James Williams, 66, and Geoffry Paul Harstad, 64, both residents of Williston. Officers also discovered a deceased dog at the scene.
The investigation revealed that Mr. Harstad was walking his dog when it became involved in a fight with Mr. Williams' dog. After the dogs were separated, Mr. Williams allegedly retrieved a handgun and shot Mr. Harstad’s dog. In response, Mr. Harstad returned to his property, retrieved a firearm, and discharged a round while Mr. Williams stood near a trailer in his driveway.
As a result, Ricky Williams was arrested and charged with Reckless Endangerment (Class C Felony), Animal Cruelty (Class C Felony), and Discharge of a Firearm Within City Limits (Class B Misdemeanor). Geoffry Harstad was also arrested for Discharge of a Firearm Within City Limits (Class B Misdemeanor).
No further information is available at this time
Once again, an action that never should have taken place leaves one dog dead.
Just sad.
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Gallery Credit: Stacker