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Officer honored for meritorious service

by | Feb 12, 2026 | Latest, News

Officer Dylan Lewis, left, receives a Meritorious Conduct Bar from Police Chief James Waters for his fast action in stopping a dog from attacking an animal control officer. Bob Wieland/Princeton Herald

Princeton Police Officer Dylan Lewis has received a Meritorious Conduct Bar for his role in saving an animal control officer from the attack of a vicious dog.

Police Chief James Waters said the incident occurred Oct. 14, 2025, when officers responded to a report of a dog attack in the 1000 block of Princeton Heights Boulevard.

Officers found emergency medical personnel treating a male victim for severe dog bite injuries with significant blood loss, the chief said.

“While assisting Collin County Animal Control in securing the animal, the dog suddenly broke free and launched a violent attack on the animal control officer,” Waters said at the Monday, Feb. 9, meeting of the Princeton City Council. “The officer was knocked to the ground and actively bitten on his chest and arm, creating an immediate and serious threat to his safety and life.”

The chief said Lewis discharged his duty weapon, neutralizing the threat and immediately ending the attack. 

“His actions prevented further injury and likely saved the life of the animal control officer,” Waters said.

Lewis’s conduct demonstrated “exemplary courage and exceptional meritorious service in a duty of great responsibility, involving significant risk and danger,” the chief said.

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