KRYSTAL L. DEAN arrested after an extremely emaciated dog was found with a chain collar embedded in her neck

- Illinois, USA -

The Joliet Police Department arrested 39-year-old KRYSTAL L. DEAN (pictured).

According to the Department’s press release provided to Voice For Us, on October 20, 2025, the police were contacted by Joliet Township Animal Control regarding a possible case of animal cruelty at a residence in the 1200 block of Hague Court.

Officers responded to the location and in the backyard of the residence they found a black and tan female Rottweiler mix named Luna, in a cage.

Luna appeared to be extremely emaciated, with visible ribs and hip bones. “No food or water was observed within Luna’s reach,” said the police. But that’s not all. Luna had a chain collar embedded in her neck, “causing an open wound with active larvae and fly activity,” stated the release.

At that point, the Joliet Police Animal Crimes Team (JPACT) was called in and spoke with DEAN.

DEAN told JPACT that she had been aware of the embedded chain for about two weeks and claimed that she had taken Luna to the vet. The police said DEAN could not provide any documentation to corroborate her claim. DEAN went on to state that Luna was strictly an “outdoor dog” and that she had been kept in the kennel due to a broken lead.

DEAN signed Luna over to JPACT. Thankfully, Luna is receiving veterinary care and is expected to make a full recovery.

DEAN was placed under arrest and transported to the Will County Adult Detention Facility. She was charged with one felony count of aggravated cruelty to animals and one felony count of violation of owner duties.

###

Voice For Us Disclaimer: This story is sourced from the press release provided to Voice For Us by the Joliet Police Department. Please note that details may be removed or new information added should updates become available.

In the case of charges being dropped, dismissed, or the case being purged, this article will be rectified accordingly, if official documentation is provided to Voice For Us.

DEAN’s mugshot shared from the Will County Sheriff's Office

Luna’s pictures provided to Voice For Us by the Joliet Police Department

For more animal cruelty stories, please click here. Thank you!