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Last year when a Parkersburg, West Virginia woman called police to her home for assistance after a fight broke out between her father-in-law and a neighbor, an unbelievable scene unfolded – and it was all caught on tape.
When West Virginia State Trooper, Seth Cook entered Tiffanie Hupp’s yard, her dog, who was tethered by a chain, approached an officer, barking. The officer immediately drew his weapon and aimed it at the dog. Afraid that her dog was about to be killed, Hupp stepped between the officer and her dog, blocking him from shooting.
Cook grabbed Hupp, throwing her to the ground before arresting and charging her with obstruction.
Seth Cook explained to a jury on February 29 that he wasn’t afraid of the dog, but was following training that required him to kill all dogs that approach him, even if it was chained and wagging its tail as Buddy was doing in this case.
Thankfully, Hupp’s husband Ryan recorded the entire incident with his cell phone’s video camera. After discovering the incident had been recorded, police entered the Hupp’s home and collected all cell phones and tablets, including the one used to record the video above and devices belonging to people not involved in the dispute.
During the February trial, prosecutors urged Hupp to take a plea deal, explaining she could face a year in jail. She refused to take a plea bargain for something she didn’t do. When attorney David Schels saw the video, he agreed to represent Hupp in court pro bono.
Cook testified to a jury that Hupp had been carrying a cross bow during the incident, but video proves otherwise. He claimed she raised her hands at him, which video proves otherwise.
The trial lasted about 6 hours. A jury deliberated for 30 minutes before returning a not guilty verdict, acquitting Hupp of all charges. Cook has not been charged with perjury.
Angela
Jul 30, 2023 at 6:19 am
Seth cook now works for Belpre Ohio Police Department.
Angela
Jul 30, 2023 at 6:18 am
Seth cook is now a patrolman at Belpre Ohio PD still making bad decisions
Mike Cannon
Jun 10, 2016 at 7:41 am
“Seth Cook explained to a jury on February 29 that he wasn’t afraid of the dog, but was following training that required him to kill all dogs that approach him, even if it was chained and wagging its tail as Buddy was doing in this case.”
Your “training” sucks. Scumbag. And the false charges after shows how little morality and ethics you have.
Sharon McKenzie
May 18, 2016 at 1:18 am
It is disgusting that this vile piece of cowardly trash hiding behind a badge has not been fired AND convicted of perjury, having blatantly LIED, not once but TWICE, about this incident. He also claims that he was not afraid of the dog, but his actions prove that’s a lie, too; just watch him nearly jump out of his skin when the dog looks at him! People who are that mentally and emotionally unstable have absolutely no business carrying a gun, period, let alone in a position of power and authority.
Gail Allen
Mar 12, 2016 at 10:55 pm
This man is a disgrace to his department, disciple definitely in order!