Overview

• On June 17, Good Samaritan Shelby Krohn rescued a stray golden retriever from Horicon Marsh and delivered it to town chairman Richard Van Buren in his capacity as animal control officer.
• Criminal complaints state Van Buren used a leash to suspend the dog by its neck repeatedly until it suffocated, reportedly declaring, “This f***ing dog is going to die.”
• Van Buren was arrested on June 19 and charged with felony animal mistreatment, a conviction for which carries up to three-and-a-half years in prison.
• Authorities have warned residents that threats against Van Buren or his property may be illegal following reports of violent backlash.
• The Dodge County Humane Society is circulating the dog’s photos online to locate its owner after confirming the animal was unchipped when found on Highway 49.