Vermont State Police say a 47-year-old man from Shaftsbury has been charged with animal cruelty following an incident on January 23, 2026. Authorities responded to a complaint on Shaftsbury Hollow Road, where they discovered a beagle chained outside to an uninsulated wooden structure without food and with a frozen water bowl. According to police, the dog appeared to have been outside for several hours in freezing conditions, prompting concern for its wellbeing.
Further investigation revealed that an 82-year-old woman, Matilda E. Blodgett, was responsible for the dog’s care. She was issued a citation, while the beagle was taken to Mount Anthony Veterinary Hospital for evaluation. Following this, Timothy S. Harrington, identified as the dog’s owner, cooperated with police and was also cited.
The beagle is now in stable condition and is being cared for at the Second Chance Animal Center. Harrington is scheduled to appear in the Vermont Superior Court – Bennington Criminal Division on March 30, 2026, at 8:00 AM. Charges remain allegations at this time, and court dates may change as the legal process unfolds.
The Vermont shaftsbury woman situation continues to develop.
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Source: Vermont State Police
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