ROCKLAND, Maine — The Rockland Police Department is reviewing its policies and practices after a dog was left in a vehicle overnight after its owner was arrested.
Deputy Police Chief Alex Gaylor said an individual was arrested for violation of conditions of release about 5:30 p.m. Wednesday. At the time of the arrest, the person’s dog was in the vehicle. Officers asked the owner about contacting someone to pick up the dog, but the owner was unable to come up with anyone.
On making contact with the dog, officers found the dog was aggressive, growling and barking at them. Police said it was unclear after speaking to the owner if the dog would be a bite risk. An acquaintance of the owner who arrived on scene offered to take the dog, but after the dog continued to act aggressive, that person decided not to take the dog as well.
Officers decided to leave the dog in the vehicle until it could be determined if the owner would be held or bailed out. The owner was given unsecured bail, meaning the person could bail at any time. During the overnight, officers checked on the dog several times and each time found it was sleeping or showing no signs of distress.
Upon receiving a complaint Thursday morning about the dog being left overnight, Gaylor confirmed the owner had picked up the dog early in the morning.
“We are reviewing the incident and decision made by the officers last night to leave the dog in the vehicle overnight while checking on it versus attempting to forcefully remove the dog and bring it to the shelter. I can certainly understand the concern over the decision made by the officers last night and share some concern myself. I can say we are looking into this matter seriously and will be reviewing our policy and practices to ensure we are making the correct decisions that are in the best interest of the animal and reviewing this incident for any possible discipline,” the deputy chief said.
Temperatures went from about 60 degrees Fahrenheit last evening to the low 40s overnight.
This story appears through a media partnership with Midcoast Villager.