Police in Bath have charged a local man after the death of his dog from neglect.
On October 4th, at approximately 5:40 p.m., Bath Police officers were dispatched to a Rumsey Street residence following reports of a strong odor of decomposition. Officers forced entry after initial observations suggested someone may have been deceased inside.
Inside, the source of the odor was discovered to be a decomposing dog, a female pit bull mix named Xena, left in a crate. Investigators say there were no signs that anyone was living in the home.
Police determined that Xena had been confined without food or water for an extended period, ultimately dying of starvation. Investigators noted that the dog survived for some time by eating her own excrement.
The owner of the dog, 23-year-old Zachariah Hill of Bath, had reportedly been seen leaving the residence about five weeks prior to the 911 call and did not return during that time. Authorities say Hill had been offered assistance and resources to care for the dog, but refused.
On Wednesday, Hill was charged with felony Aggravated Cruelty to Animals and released on an appearance ticket for Bath Village Court.
The Bath Police Department urges anyone concerned about animal welfare to report suspected cases of neglect or abuse immediately.
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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