Police: Teen intentionally injured, pushed dog into ditch
<p>Bridger recovers from his injuries while connected to a Infusion pump at River City Animal Hospital July 22 in Post Falls. A teen was arrested Friday and faces charges of animal cruelty in connection with the dog's injuries. </p>
The Post Falls Police Department reports that officers arrested a 14-year-old boy this morning in connection with the abandonment and abuse of "Bridger," the dog that was found injured July 21 at Falls Park in Post Falls.
"The Post Falls Detective Division worked diligently on the case over the past few weeks, following up on numerous leads reported to our agency as well as interviewing potential witnesses," states a press release." With the assistance of the public, these leads ultimately led us to the suspect who is now in custody."
An interview of the juvenile suspect revealed that he was unhappy with the animal and chose to get rid of the dog by injuring it and pushing it into the old Corbin Ditch at Falls Park to be left to die. "Bridger" was discovered and rescued and treated by Post Falls Police and Kootenai County Fire and Rescue. The animal had to be euthanized last weekend, because it suffered from multiple age-related health issues, in addition to the injuries.
"Needless to say, based on the numerous comments received from the public, this tragic incident touched the hearts of many people," the release said. "The Post Falls Police Department would like to thank all those who provided information in the case and the numerous positive comments left on our Facebook page."
The juvenile suspect was charged with cruelty to animals and is currently being held in the Kootenai County Juvenile correctional facility. He will go before the magistrate on Monday morning at which time a bond will be set.