It doesn't surprise me that law enforcement would shoot a raccoon. They are cute and interesting animals, but as someone that's camped and spent a lot of time outdoors a raccoon doesn't even have to be rabid to be dangerous. I've never had to shoot one, but if you encounter a female with a family or even get to close to a pile a trash with some food one is eating they usually have no intention of backing down until they get what they want. They'll growl, and charge you for sure..