Aberdeen Police say they have leads on hanged dog

Aberdeen Police Capt. John Green said police are still looking for whoever is responsible for the death of a dog that was found hanged last week in Aberdeen, although they have some leads in the case.

Since the case is still open, Green couldn’t disclose what information police have obtained since an Aberdeen Officer found the dog hanging by a leash that was tied to the top of a wooden fence last Thursday. Police and Animal Control believe the dog, discovered in the 400 block of West Fifth Street, suffocated as a result of being hanged.

Green said police have talked to residents who lived near where the dog was found and are also hoping someone recognizes the leash and collar that was found on the animal. He said leads have been chased down and Detective Jon Hudson is actively pursuing the case.

“We’re suspecting people have information, we’re just hoping they let us know,” said Green. “It (the dog’s death) hit a lot of people right in the nerves. This is really wrong.”

As of right now, there is a combined $1,200 reward for anyone with information that leads to the arrest and conviction of whoever is responsible for the dog’s death. Operation Dog Rescue has put forth $300 of that reward, Harbor Rescue contributed $200 and an anonymous donor has offered $700.

In addition to these donations, Harbor Rescue Founder Debra Thomas-Blake said she is in the process of setting up a donation fund at Timberland bank that will go toward the reward. She expects the fund, titled “animal cruelty reward,” to be set up sometime later this week.

Those who would like to donate can inquire at Timberland Bank branches. All proceeds will go to the reward only and Thomas-Blake said what isn’t claimed of the money for the dog will be saved for another animal cruelty case.

Anyone with information regarding the case is asked to call the Aberdeen Police Department at (360) 533-3180 or the department’s tip line, (360) 538-4450.