Authorities arrested a man on Saturday, Apr. 6, following a distressing discovery in Connoquenessing Township, Pennsylvania. Two German Shepherds were found dead due to starvation. The heartbreaking incident led to the rescue of 50 animals as law enforcement stepped in to address the situation.
Man arrested after investigation into German Shepherd deaths
Pennsylvania State Police executed a search warrant at the Butler County residence, as per CBS News reports. Paul Frederick, aged 53, was instructed to vacate the premises on Double Road, yet he declined to comply. Consequently, troopers tried to escort him out of the residence. At that time, Frederick resisted.
While executing the warrant, authorities discovered and removed 50 animals from the property. Police found dogs, cats, pigs, goats, and ducks in the home. Afterward, police ensured all rescued animals were transported to the ANNA Shelter.
Frederick faces multiple charges, including aggravated cruelty to animals. Moreover, in addition to resisting arrest, he is also being charged with obstructing the administration of law.
German Shepherds stuffed in garbage bags discovered by police K-9
A day prior, the bodies of the two deceased dogs were found, as per WTAE. The German Shepherd Dogs were stashed and concealed in separate trash bags. A police K-9 can be credited with the discovery. State troopers further revealed the canines were found in a parking lot.
No external wounds were evident during an initial inspection of the dogs. However, authorities did note the presence of sunken eyes on the young dogs. Investigators estimated the German Shepherds to be only three and five years old, respectively.
What’s more, upon examination of the animals, signs of malnutrition were evident. A later necropsy of the German Shepherds revealed each dog was severely underweight. In fact, the report suggested both dogs should have weighed nearly 30 pounds more than they did at the time of death. As such, it became clear the two succumbed to starvation.
Authorities also took note of the presence of microchips and ID tags on the dogs’ collars. It was these clues that directed investigators to Frederick’s residence. Accordingly, an interview of Frederick by state police prompted a return to the scene. Their conversations helped investigators determine the deceased dogs were previously buried near the parking lot in shallow graves.
Some animal advocates hope the tragic discovery of the dead German Shepherds will serve as a stark reminder of the importance of responsible pet ownership. Others are sounding the alarm about the need for vigilant intervention in cases of animal neglect.
