TOWN OF CHESTER, Wis. (WKOW) — The chairman of the Chester Town Board has been arrested in connection to the death of a golden retriever.
Dodge County Sheriff Dale Schmidt announced Thursday the arrest of Richard Van Buren for mistreating animals. He was taken to the Dodge County Jail.
On Tuesday night, officers were called to a home on Oakwood Run in the Town of Chester to investigate. That's between Beaver Dam and Waupun.
The dog's death has generated considerable interest in the community. Sheriff Schmidt emphasized that enforcement decisions are not influenced by public outcry.
"We take the time to gather the necessary evidence that the district attorney needs for a successful prosecution," Schmidt said. The sheriff's office said it is committed to conducting thorough investigations before making arrests.
The sheriff's office has also addressed threatening comments made by community members.
"Threats to the personal safety and property of individuals are not only inappropriate but may also be illegal," Schmidt said. The office warns that arrests will be made if threats, including those on social media, violate the law.
Additionally, the sheriff's office clarified inaccuracies circulating on social media. They confirmed that no Dodge County officials were involved in the incident.
The investigation is ongoing, and the sheriff's office encourages reporting any mistreatment of animals for proper investigation.
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