The Oak Ridge Police Department has investigated a report of animal cruelty after a social media post said a dog had allegedly been smothered by its owner, but there is no evidence that allows charges to be filed, authorities said Tuesday.
The ORPD received the complaint of possible animal cruelty on Sunday, November 8, a press release said. Officers investigated the complaint and conducted interviews with a complainant, an employee of a local veterinary clinic, and the owner of the dog, who claimed her pet was being treated for severe heartworm issues, the press release said.
“The owner of the dog advised that her pet was very ill, and she put it down for compassionate reasons,” the release said. “Results of the investigation are being forwarded to the Anderson County District Attorney General’s Office for further review. However, per Tennessee Criminal Law (TCA 39-14-212/Aggravated Cruelty to an Animal), no evidence exists at this time which allows officers to file charges against the owner of the dog.”
No other information is available at this time, the City of Oak Ridge said in the press release.
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