Dog Groomer Charged After Pet's Death In South Jersey: Police

WOODBURY HEIGHTS, NJ — The owner of a Gloucester County pet-grooming business was charged after police say they investigated a dog's death and found drugs in the facility.

A customer dropped their dog off for a grooming appointment Friday at K-9 Kingdom (588 Glassboro Rd., Woodbury Heights). The business owner, Trevor Hunt, contacted him a short time later and said the dog was dead, according to police.

Officers confirmed the dog's death with Hunt and launched an investigation, which resulted in a search of the premises. During that time, Hunt became "uncooperative" and was arrested, police said. Authorities say they found a "substantial amount" of narcotics in the business, which they seized.

It wasn't immediately clear whether authorities know or have suspicions of how the dog died. Patch contacted the Woodbury City Police Department with questions but did not immediately receive a response.

As of Tuesday afternoon, Hunt has been charged with tampering with evidence, resisting arrest, possession of a controlled dangerous substance (CDS), and possession of CDS with intent to distribute. The investigation is ongoing, and additional charges may be filed, police said.

Hunt is currently in the Salem County Jail, pending a detention hearing. The facility provides jailing services for Gloucester County.

Anyone with information concerning the investigation can contact Woodbury Police Det. Nick Cacciola at ncacciola@woodburypd.com or 856-845-0065 ext. 142.