Investigators Pursuing 'Puppy Doe' Leads

Norfolk District Attorney Michael W. Morrissey released a statement this week on the "Puppy Doe," case, in which a pit bull was found in a Quincy park so brutally tortured that she had to be euthanized shortly thereafter. 

According to the Boston Herald, the original owner of the dog was forced to give her up for fear of losing her homeowner's insurance, and she was given to a Grafton woman. Police tell the Herald that while the original owner is "heartbroken" and very helpful, the woman from Grafton hung up on reporters after saying she had given the dog away and had no further information. 

The statement Morrissey's office released is as follows: 

On behalf of my office, the Quincy Police Department, and the Animal Rescue League of Boston, I am grateful for the hundreds of calls and tips that have been forthcoming in the criminal investigation into the torture of Puppy Doe.  We have been inundated with tips, concerns and offers of assistance from around the world.  “Please be assured that we are following up with each tip received even those that have taken us out of state,” said Paul Keenan, Quincy Police Chief.

Many calls have been received requesting updated information on the status and progress of the investigation. As with all criminal investigations, we are unable to discuss publicly the specifics of this very active and ongoing investigation.  To do so would not only compromise the investigation, but would also violate the ethical rules to which this office is bound.  The information we have received to date from the public has been invaluable in guiding our actions through the course of the investigation. 

Please be assured that these three agencies are working in concert to identify and hold accountable the person or persons responsible for the torture of Puppy Doe.  It is highly unlikely that this level of sadistic cruelty could be shown to one animal and not be part of a pattern involving other animals or perhaps vulnerable people,” said Norfolk District Attorney Michael W. Morrissey.

Anyone with information material to the criminal investigation regarding Puppy Doe is encouraged to contact the Animal Rescue League of Boston, Law Enforcement Department at617-226-5610, email them at cruelty@arlboston.org, or call Quincy Police Detective Thomas Pepdjonovich at 617-745-5774.