LYNN — The Animal Control Department and Lynn Police Department are conducting an active investigation regarding a case of a possibly stolen dog, a Shar Pei, following allegations of animal abuse.
Last month, a Facebook video circulated of the Shar Pei sitting on a front lawn in Lynn when a man drove up to the driveway, emerged from his vehicle, and appeared to physically assault and shout profanities at the dog. The incident was brought to the attention of the Animal Control Department and LPD.
On Thursday, the Animal Control Department posted a photo of said Shar Pei on the streets of Lynn. According to the post, the department is suspecting that the dog has been stolen.
“The Lynn Police Department and Lynn Animal Control are currently conducting an active investigation regarding a possibly stolen Shar Pei, as well as animal abuse. We are seeking the public’s help to locate this dog and to identify any individuals who may have information related to its whereabouts,” the post read.
It continued, “If you have seen this dog, have custody of this dog, or have any information that may assist investigators, please contact Lynn Animal Control at 781-477-4385. We appreciate the community’s cooperation and assistance as we work to ensure the safe recovery of the animal.”
The LPD was able to confirm that the dog in the photo is missing, and that it is the same dog seen in the video circulating social media. The department is currently looking into the possibility of the dog being stolen.
Lt. Richard Connick commented on the matter.
“The Animal Control Officer and the Lynn Police are actively investigating an allegation of animal abuse that surfaced after a video was shared with the department and on social media. Additionally, we are investigating the possible larceny of the involved dog,” Connick said.
He reiterated the department’s plea for community input.
“We encourage anyone with any information regarding the whereabouts of the dog listed in the Animal Control Officer’s post to contact him at 781-477-4385,” Connick said.
