This press release was updated at 11:53 a.m. EST on July 24, 2024.
The Humane Society of the United States is offering a reward of up to $5,000 for information leading to the identification, arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible for leaving a defenseless puppy for dead in a gas station dumpster in Brattleboro, Vermont. The Vermont Humane Federation is offering $500 in addition to the HSUS' award of up to $5,000.
The Case: On July 5, 2024, the Brattleboro Police Department was notified of a puppy who was abandoned and thrown in a dumpster at a Citgo Gas Station located on Putney Road. Krystal Crandall, animal care officer for the BPD, immediately rushed the puppy, a 4-week-old pit bull-type dog, to the local humane society. A veterinarian determined that the puppy, later named Judge by Officer Crandell, was emaciated and despite life saving efforts, the puppy passed away.
Surveillance footage obtained from the gas station show an unidentified individual exit an 18-wheeler style truck and throw the puppy inside a dumpster.
“It is heartbreaking to imagine a puppy so young tossed out like yesterday’s trash in a gas station dumpster,” said Joanne Bourbeau, the HSUS’ Northeast regional director. “We are hopeful that this reward will bring forward anyone with information about this heinous crime.”
“While we can't undo the suffering and untimely death of this innocent puppy, we trust that this reward will incentivize someone to come forward and justice can be served,” said Brenna Galdenzi, secretary of the Vermont Humane Federation’s board of directors.
Animal Cruelty: Securing the serious attention and engagement of law enforcement, prosecutors and residents in cases involving allegations of cruelty to animals is an essential step in protecting the whole community. The connection between animal cruelty and human violence is well documented. Studies show a correlation between animal cruelty and many other crimes, from narcotics and firearms violations to battery and sexual assault.
The Investigators: The Brattleboro Police Department is investigating this case. Anyone with relevant information is asked to call Krystal Crandall at at 802-257-7946, 802-490-9530 or email at Krystal.Crandall@vermont.gov.
Resources: The Humane Society of the United States raises public awareness and educates communities about the connection between animal cruelty and human violence while providing a variety of resources and support to law enforcement agencies, social work professionals, educators, legislators and families. We offer rewards in animal cruelty cases across the country and work to strengthen laws against animal cruelty.