Family Seeks Justice for Pet Found Shot to Death

A Stow couple is mourning the loss of a beloved family pet today while staying vigilant in the search for its killer.

Kristina and Raymond Cope mourn the loss of Merlin, a 7-year-old mixed-breed dog they adopted from a local animal shelter.

The Copes found Merlin on the afternoon of July 27 in a nearby yard not far from their Klein Avenue home.

According to Stow Police, Merlin had been shot to death with a pellet gun.

“I want justice for Merlin 100 percent,” Kristina Cope said.

For now, the Copes don’t want to say too much about who they think might be responsible, as they’re hopeful the police investigation will lead to charges.

Whoever is responsible for the dog’s death could face charges of killing or injuring an animal, a first-degree misdemeanor, and possession of an air gun, a fourth-degree misdemeanor.

“He was a wonderful, wonderful pet,” Kristina Cope said. “Young, healthy and happy.”