Dog Strangulation Debrief (Episode 220)

Keep it Humane

Title: Unraveling the Case of Jake: A Tragic Encounter

Date: September 11, 2020

Location: 2035 South Josephine Street # 213 Denver, CO 80210

Officer: D. Ettinger #306, Denver Animal Protection (DAP)

1. Introduction

   • Officer Ettinger arrives at 2035 South Josephine Street #213, Denver, CO 80210.
   • Attempts to contact Benjamin Hatfield regarding a dead dog identified as "Jake."

2. Investigation at Alternate Address

   • Truepeoplesearch.com leads to 5438 South Foresthill Street, Littleton, CO 80120.
   • Meets with Susan Gallagher, Mr. Hatfield's aunt.
   • Mr. Hatfield found at the residence, appears nervous.

3. Mr. Hatfield's Account

   • Mr. Hatfield describes an incident with Jake defecating on his bed on September 10, 2020.
   • Admits to disciplining Jake by muzzling tightly with a leash and leashing him to a bike hook.
   • Claims to have found Jake deceased upon waking up on September 11, 2020.

4. Search Warrant

   • Officer contacts Denver Police Department (DPD) for assistance.
   • Detective C. Hegwer assigned to the case.
   • Search warrant obtained at approximately 1730 hours.

5. Execution of Warrant

   • Officers J. Humphreys and D. Sechrist assist in executing the warrant.
   • Entry made into 2035 South Josephine Street #213 at approximately 1815 hours.

6. Scene Investigation

   • Traces of blood and fibers found near a bicycle rack consistent with Mr. Hatfield's account.
   • Saliva and fur of Jake found on the bicycle.
   • Examination of living room, dining area, kitchen, and bedroom for evidence.

7. Findings

   • No evidence of feces on the bed sheets or in the dining room.
   • White quilt in the bedroom shows small amounts of blood and possible urine stains.
   • Hoover spot remover and debris consistent with Mr. Hatfield's account found in the bedroom.

8. Bathroom Examination

   • Fur from Jake and pieces of the leash found in the bathtub.
   • Small piece of feces near the drain.

9. Conclusion

   • Dr. Gary Mason from Colorado State University concludes Jake died from suffocation.