Response from the Chief
This is a follow up from an earlier story we did. Not a big story, but an ask. Because you asked us if we had heard if a second Las Animas Police Officer was currently on leave, we reached out to Police Chief David Doughtery.
The response we received stated:
Good afternoon Anne,
The department does not comment on individual personnel matters. Any such matters are handled in accordance with the applicable law and department policy.
Have an outstanding day...
Respectfully,
It's understandable that the department will not tell us the reason for the leave as it could be personal. However, we felt it wasn't an answer to "do you have a second officer on leave." We respect the answer but will continue to ask the questions..
This topic of leave came up following the leave of Police Officer Thomas Dunagan who has been to court on charges of extortion and official misconduct. Dunagan's next trip to court will be for a pre-trial hearing on November 2nd in Bent County.
The Las Animas Police department's rebirth is fairly new. The department was brought back in early 2026 partially thanks to a grant. There are currently six officers, according to the City of Las Anima's website and one code enforcement officer.
All calls for service within the city limits are handled by the LAPD with calls in the county going to the Bent County Sheriff's Office.
Comments