Hudson Valley Man Charged with Animal Cruelty

In another terrible story of alleged animal abuse, an 8-month-old dog was euthanized after police say its owner left the dog outside with no shade.

Mid Hudson News reports that 27-year-old Stephen Sampson of Newburgh was arrested by the Hudson Valley SPCA Humane Law Enforcement Division and charged with animal cruelty.

According to authorities, Sampson left his eight-month-old Staffordshire Terrier tied up with no shade. Temperatures reached 93 degrees in the yard, and police say the dog died while in Sampson's care. SPCA authorities allege that when they found the dog her body temperature was over 112 degrees.

If found guilty, Sampson could face a fine up to $1,000 and be listed on the Orange County animal abuse registry.

This is not the first time a dog has died after being left outside in Newburgh. In March the Times Herald Record reported that Edwardo Maceda was charged with animal cruelty by the SPCA after they say he left his 3-year-old Staffordshire terrier outside for five weeks without providing it food, water or any shelter.

If you know of an animal that is being neglected, you are encouraged to contact your local SPCA Law Enforcement Department.