Groton Couple Arrested After Dog, 8, Dies In Car

An 8-year-old dog died after being left in a car, and Groton Town Police have arrested a Groton couple on animal cruelty charges.

Heidi D. Hunter, 21, and Gabriel H. Hunter, 22, were charged with cruelty to animals after Groton Animal Control and the police department began investigating on July 9, according to a news release.

Both have been released on a promise to appear in New London Superior Court on Sept. 6.

“The investigation revealed that the Hunters had left their 8-year-old shepherd mix in their car for an extended period of time, resulting in the death of the canine,” the news release said.

Lt. John Varone said the dog was in the car for approximately 12 hours overnight, from July 7 into July 8. The dog was dead when it was found, he said.

Police said they want to remind people of the danger of leaving pets in vehicles, especially during summer.

“Although the outside temperatures may appear mild, direct sunlight and humid air can heat the interior of a vehicle to unbearable levels,” the release said.

People who see unattended animals in cars are encouraged to contact Groton Animal Control at (860) 441-6709 or Groton Police at (860) 441-6712.