According to police reports, an 82-year-old woman from Shaftsbury, Vermont, has been charged with animal cruelty following an incident on January 23, 2026. Vermont State Police say they received a complaint regarding a beagle found outside on Shaftsbury Hollow Road, chained to an uninsulated structure made of wooden pallets. The dog was observed without food and with a frozen water bowl, shivering in sub-freezing temperatures.
Upon arrival, troopers determined that the dog had been left outside for several hours, prompting their intervention. Matilda E. Blodgett was identified as the individual responsible for the beagle’s care. Following the investigation, she was issued a citation to appear in court.
Blodgett is scheduled to appear in the Vermont Superior Court – Bennington Criminal Division on March 30, 2026, at 8:00 AM. The beagle was transported to Mount Anthony Veterinary Hospital for further care. Police remind the public that charges are allegations, and the legal process will continue as the case progresses. Court dates and details may change, and individuals are encouraged to verify with the court clerk.
The Vermont shaftsbury woman situation continues to develop. The Vermont shaftsbury woman situation continues to develop.
The Daily Scout.
Top stories, weather, and what’s on tap statewide — in your inbox by half past six. Free, daily.
Almost there.
Check your inbox to confirm your subscription. The first edition lands tomorrow morning.
Read more Vermont news stories at VTScout.
Source: Vermont State Police
About this report AI-assisted
Source: Vermont State Police ↗
How this was written: This story was drafted with AI assistance from public-record sources and published under VTScout's editorial standards. Spot something wrong? Request a correction.
All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Charges and court dates are subject to change. Reporting is based on information from law enforcement and public records, and will be updated as more details become available.
The VTScout newsroom covers Vermont local news, public safety, and community life across the four regions of the state. Tips and corrections welcome at [email protected].