Woman strikes dog with vehicle and flees scene West Hartford, CT (US)Incident Date: Sunday, Nov 28, 2010 County: Hartford
Charges: Misdemeanor Disposition: Alleged
Alleged: Bianca M. Rodriguez
Shortly after 2 p.m. on Sunday officers were dispatched to the area of 115 Hollywood Ave. in response to an incident of a dog being struck by a car.
Bianca M. Rodriguez, 21, of 87 Hungerford St., Hartford, is scheduled to appear in Superior Court in Hartford on Dec. 9 facing charges of cruelty to animals, third degree criminal mischief, evading responsibility and failure to notify dog owner after car strike.
John Vallera, the dog's owner, was not aware that she had followed him as he crossed the street to speak with a neighbor. The neighbor informed Vallera that Sienna, the boxer, was loose. Vallera saw a car approaching and signaled the driver, Rodriguez, to slow down. The car did slow but once Sienna was further into the road the car sped up and struck the dog. Witnesses say the car was aiming for the dog which was dragged approximately 45 feet down the road.
Onlookers reported the car occupants were cheering and clapping during the incident. Rodriguez pulled the car over briefly. As Vallera approached to check on Sienna the car fled the scene.
Witnesses reported the license plate number which led police to Rodriguez's residence where she was arrested. Rodriguez admitted to driving and striking the dog but denied any cheering or clapping taking place. She was released on a $5,000 surety bond until her court date.
Sienna suffered abrasions and road rash injuries which were plainly visible. Her owner took her to the veterinarian for more thorough observation. References |