Sprout, an approximately 9-month-old puppy, was found by West Bridgewater Police on Nov. 24 during a traffic stop. A subsequent investigation has led police to seek a charge of Animal Cruelty against Sprout’s owner, a 27-year-old Taunton man. (Photo Courtesy Animal Protection Center of Southeastern Massachusetts)
WEST BRIDGEWATER — The West Bridgewater Police Department is providing an update into an animal welfare investigation that resulted in charges against the dog’s owner.
DEVIN PREEPER, AGE 27, of TAUNTON, is scheduled to be arraigned on a felony charge of Animal Cruelty in Brockton District Court on Dec. 23.
On Monday, Nov. 24, at approximately 11:49 a.m., West Bridgewater Police Officer Alexandra Maloney observed a vehicle run a red light on North Main Street and conducted a stop.
While interacting with the driver, identified as PREEPER, Officer Maloney observed what appeared to be a significantly underweight dog in the vehicle. The dog, a 9-month-old puppy named Sprout, was taken to Westbridge Veterinary Referral Hospital, where she received medical care.
A subsequent investigation, which was assisted by Sgt. Russell Regan, determined that the driver was Sprout’s owner and that the dog was severely malnourished.
Following treatment, Sprout was transferred to the Animal Protection Center of Southeastern Massachusetts (APCSM), where her condition is slowly improving. The APCSM is raising funds to support Sprout’s recovery. To learn more, please visit: https://www.apcsm.org.
During the initial traffic stop, officers took steps to ensure the dog immediately received veterinary care. Investigators then conducted a thorough follow-up investigation, including documenting the dog’s condition, gathering veterinary reports, and conducting follow-up interviews. During that investigation, West Bridgewater Police developed probable cause to charge PREEPER.
In cases like this, a summons is a standard procedure. It allows investigators to conduct an investigation and present the facts to the court.
A criminal complaint charging PREEPER with Animal Cruelty was issued on Tuesday in Brockton District Court.
The incident remains under investigation.
These are allegations. All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
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