Former Officer Blasts "Baseless" Animal Cruelty Charge

WOODSTOCK, GA -- The attorney for the man linked to the deaths of three dogs in his care is responding to the charges that have been levied against his client by the public and law enforcement officials.

Marietta-based defense attorney David R. Willingham, who is representing Daniel Peabody, said Thursday the charges against the former officer are "absolutely baseless."

Willingham issued the statement on Thursday, making note of Peabody's 16-year career as a former lieutenant with the Cherokee County School District Police Department.

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The statement follows the news that the remains of a third dog were found on property formerly belonging to Peabody, who has been charged by the Cherokee County Marshal's Office with one count each of aggravated animal cruelty and making false statements.

Officials initially thought the remains belonged to Dale, a yellow Labrador that was retired from the Cherokee school police department in 2012.

The aggravated animal cruelty charge stems from Peabody allegedly leaving his partner, K-9 Inka, in a patrol car with no ventilation while the engine was off, which resulted in the dog's death of a heat stroke. The car was not properly equipped to transport police K-9's, as it did not have an agency-approved heat alarm or kennel system.

"Inka's passing was a horrible and unintentional accident, one that has left Lieutenant Peabody completely devastated," the statement says. "As their vast network of friends, family and law enforcement colleagues will tell you, Lieutenant Peabody and his wife, Tyler, love and adore animals. Lieutenant Peabody would never, ever intentionally abuse or show cruelty towards any animal, especially his beloved companion, Inka."

The false statement charge comes from Peabody allegedly informing marshal's office investigators about the death of Dale.

The agency received information about Dale after it opened its investigation into Inka's death. Peabody was responsible for Dale's upkeep and care after his retirement. Peabody allegedly told investigators Dale's death was accidental and was caused by him choking on a toy, the marshal's office said.

However, Cherokee Chief Marshal Ron Hunton previously said the investigation "yielded evidence that Dale was in fact shot and killed by Peabody" after was retired from active service.

The statement released by Willingham states Peabody "has lost a member of his family," and that he and his wife plead for privacy as "they continue to grieve Inka's passing."

"The truth will come to light, not in a court of public opinion, but in a court of law," the statement goes on to say. "Until that time, the Peabodys urge the public to withhold judgment and take false and distorted media reports with a healthy dose of skepticism. The Peabodys would like to thank their friends and loved ones for their continued love and support during this most difficult time."

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Image via Cherokee County Adult Detention Center