In October 2009, Arcadia police destroyed two black bears that had taken up residence in the backyard of a home in a Highlands neighborhood where wildlife is prevalent, especially deer, and sometimes bears.
Deer and other wildlife, including many deer roaming the streets and yards of homes, is as common in the foothills Highlands residential neighborhood as peacocks are in the Colleges neighborhood of Arcadia.
The concerned owner of the home where the bears were residing called police, who checked with animal and wildlife agencies. None were willing to take the bears.
City officials were advised that even if the bears were relocated as far as 200 miles away they would find their way back.
So, when one of the bears returned, the police went and killed it. When another bear showed up the same week, police went and killed that one too.
One of several signs residents posted in their yards over concern about deer and other wildlife when police killed 2 bears that had taken up residence in the backyard of a neighbor.
Some neighbors were unhappy. At least one wrote a letter of outrage and sadness that was published in a local newspaper. At least two neighbors put up signs of protest.
Grim remembrance of two bears killed by police.
Do you know of any other options police and city officials could have used or shoud use in future? What are you thoughts? Share your comments below and take a second to answer the poll on the home page — Should police have killed the bears: Yes or No?
Watch 2-minute video version of the above photos below:
Get the Flash Player to see this content.