A Granby homeowner now faces a criminal charge for shooting a black bear that broke into his livestock pen and killed some chickens inside. According to the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP), the 39-year-old called the state's emergency dispatch line himself to report it. He told officers he watched the bear feeding on one of his birds before he fired. He also said he believes a bear killed his goats last month.

He has been charged with illegally taking a black bear and is due in court in Torrington on October 9.

Many small farmers and backyard homesteaders across Connecticut raise chickens, goats, and other animals. When a bear gets into a pen and starts killing, owners have only moments to decide what to do. A homeowner who reported the incident openly should not be left guessing about what the law allows in that moment.

Connecticut's black bears deserve protection, and so do the families who live alongside them. Clear rules and real support can protect both.

The State's Attorney's office handling this case should drop the charge against the Granby homeowner. The Connecticut General Assembly's Environment Committee and DEEP should set clear, limited rules for when residents may stop a bear during an active attack on livestock. They should also expand support for electric fencing, bear-proof coops, and compensation for lost animals, so fewer encounters end with a dead bear.

Sign the petition to drop the charge and give Connecticut farmers clear rules before the October 9 court date.