New Bedford Woman Charged With Animal Cruelty in Dog Shooting

NEW BEDFORD (WBSM) — A New Bedford woman has been charged with animal cruelty after a dog was apparently shot with a pellet gun earlier this month.

According to New Bedford Police, officers met with a woman on Saturday, March 1 who reported that her dog was possibly shot with a pellet gun.

Police said security cameras “captured the sound of two loud bangs with her dog limping in pain and visibly injured.”

The subsequent investigation led police to charge Lynette Ayala, 32, with animal cruelty.

Get our free mobile app

“Animal cruelty is a serious offense, and we will not tolerate it in our community,” Police Chief Paul Oliveira said.

“Thanks to the swift work of our animal control officers and detectives, we were able to take action in this case,” he said. “We remain committed to seeking justice for innocent animals and ensuring the safety of all residents.”