Full Notification

Christopher J. Fletcher
Chief of Police

Lt. Jeffrey Hoch
Public Information Officer
856-382-1205
[email protected]
 
Maple Shade Police Investigating Animal Cruelty Case of a Township Family’s Poodle

Maple Shade, NJ
September 19, 2019
For Immediate Release
 
Chief Christopher J. Fletcher announced today 9/19/19 that The Maple Shade Police Department is investigating an animal cruelty case in the death of “Toby”, a poodle that was the beloved companion of the Cook Family.

On Wednesday 9/18/19 at 2:11PM the Maple Shade Police Department was contacted by the Cook Family of the 800 block of Greenwood Avenue in Maple Shade. The Cook Family reported that their dog Toby had been injured the previous day on Tuesday 9/17/19, between 5:30PM and 6:30PM. The family had transported Toby to the veterinarian on 9/17/19 after being alerted by a neighbor that he was howling in pain a short distance from the Cook’s residence.

The initial examination by the veterinarian revealed an injury to Toby’s head and the presence of an object lodged in his head. Toby was humanely euthanized on 9/18/19.

The Maple Shade Police Department immediately launched an investigation upon receiving the initial report and canvassed the neighborhood for information. The Municipal Humane Law Enforcement Officers of the Maple Shade Police Department are continuing the investigation into this cruelty case in conjunction with assistance from the Burlington County Prosecutor’s Office.

Chief Fletcher’s position on this investigation is clear, the Maple Shade Police Department will not tolerate cruelty to animals. The Maple Shade Police Department and our certified Humane Law Enforcement Officers will work closely with the Burlington County Prosecutor’s Office and bring to justice anyone that does kill or injure an animal in Maple Shade.

The men and women of the Maple Shade Police Department are committed to keeping the Township of Maple Shade a safe community for both our residents and our pets.

The Maple Shade Police Department request’s the assistance of the public to help bring closure for the Cook Family. If you have any information please call 856-234-8300 and reference case 2019-16928.