- Ohio, USA -
On Wednesday, June 8, authorities arrested 28-years-old BRANDON LEE MILLER (pictured) for abandoning his dog at a gas station in subfreezing temperatures.
The incident happened on March 12, when MILLER went to Fastrac gas station on Belmont Avenue in Liberty Township.
An employee told police that MILLER tied his dog to an air pump before going into the gas station to use the restroom.
According to the employee, when MILLER came out, he drove away leaving the dog behind exposed to severe temperatures. Police said it was 21 degrees at the time, but the wind chill made it feel like 7 degrees.
Employees let the furbaby into the gas station and alerted the police.
The furbaby was wearing a collar with a tag bearing the name Chino.
The Animal Welfare League of Trumbull County later took custody of the VOICELESS VICTIM.
On March 16, MILLER called police and claimed that Chino got loose. MILLER also told police he wanted Chino back as he is his emotional support animal.
According to MILLER’s version, he tied Chino outside so he could charge his phone inside the gas station and came out to find the dog was gone.
One wonders: “Why not leave Chino in the car with the heater on!?”
MILLER also told police he went into the nearby Denny’s to get out of the cold weather.
Police say they were on the scene for forty minutes when the dog was found, and no one came to claim him.
MILLER, of Youngstown, was arrested on one count of animal cruelty and booked into the Trumbull County Jail on a $2,500. He was released the following day after appearing in Girard Municipal Court before Judge Jeffrey D. Adler where he entered a not guilty plea.
Online court records show MILLER is due back in court on July 6, 2022, before Judge Jeffrey D. Adler.
The sources I consulted did not mention whether or not Chino was returned to MILLER so, before publishing this story I have sent out several emails to get that update.
I have emailed:
The Animal Welfare League of Trumbull County
Trumbull County Liberty Township Police Chief Toby Meloro
Police Secretary Marcy Orlando
Captain Ray Buhala
Detective Sergeant Michael Shuster
I have not heard back from the people listed above.
It is unclear whether Chino is still with the Animal Welfare League of Trumbull County or he has been returned to MILLER.
Voice For Us Disclaimer: This story is sourced from official news outlets. Links included.
Details may be removed or additional information may be provided in future should such sources report an update.
Sources:
