Dog Strangulation Debrief (Episode 220)

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) 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." 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. 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. Search Warrant Officer contacts Denver Police Department (DPD) for assistance. Detective C. Hegwer assigned to the case. Search warrant obtained at approximately 1730 hours. 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. 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. 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. Bathroom Examination Fur from Jake and pieces of the leash found in the bathtub. Small piece of feces near the drain. Conclusion Dr. Gary Mason from Colorado State University concludes Jake died from suffocation.