Starving and abandoned pit bull found locked in closet by new homeowners in Maine
CARIBOU, MAINE: A couple in Maine were totally surprised to discover an abandoned dog living in their newly bought home on Belanger Road. The owners found a malnourished male pit bull mix locked inside a closet, who was barely surviving after his owners had left him and went away. It is still unknown for how long he has been living in this condition. The dog behaved aggressively when authorities tried to rescue him on November 9.
Caribou Police officer, Douglas Bell shared that the dog was in extreme need of food and medical care. "Once the humane society looks at him, we'll have a better idea of whether he's suffered any infections or serious injuries," said Bell, as per Bangor Daily News. "Once we're able to interview the owner and know the dog's condition, we'll have a better idea of what we might charge them with," he added. Caribou Police said in its Facebook post last week that they are investigating the case and has already zeroed on the suspect, and the search is on.
READ MORE
Georgia twins tragically die in house fire just hours after they celebrated first birthday
Kaylin Fiengo: 12 weeks pregnant woman, 18, found shot dead in her car
It read, “The Caribou Police Department has identified and charged the owner of the dog that was found locked inside a previously vacant home. Matthew Guzman, 31, of Caribou voluntarily turned himself in on the evening of November 14, 2022. Guzman was charged with Animal Cruelty, a class D misdemeanor subject to a maximum penalty of up to 364 days imprisonment, and a court-imposed ban on possessing any animals in the future, and a fine not less than $500," reports People.
“Chief Michael Gahagan and the entire Caribou Police Department would like to thank the Central Aroostook Humane Society and the Maine State Animal Welfare Office for their assistance, as well as all of the members of the public who generously offered tips and assistance in caring for the dog. The dog is currently safe and being provided with the care he needs," the statement continued.
As per the report, the press release by authorities further said, “We have a few leads to work on thanks to people reaching out and we appreciate it. In the meantime we are making sure the dog is being cared for. Thank you again. Also many have asked about the previous home owner etc., the dog was abandoned at the home while it was vacant, meaning after the previous owner left but before it was just purchased. We now have identified a suspect and are in the process of locating him. The dog is currently getting the care he needs."