Traffic Stop Uncovers Severely Malnourished Puppy in West Bridgewater

UPDATE (12/9): The suspect has been identified as Devin Preeper, 27, of Taunton. A criminal complaint was issued today and he is scheduled to be arraigned on a felony charge of animal cruelty in Brockton District Court on December 23.

WEST BRIDGEWATER (WBSM) — A Taunton man faces a charge of animal cruelty after a traffic stop in West Bridgewater led to the discovery of a severely malnourished puppy.

How Police Discovered Sprout During the Traffic Stop

According to West Bridgewater Police, the 27-year-old man was pulled over at around 11:49 a.m. on November 24 after Officer Alexandra Maloney observed him allegedly running a red light on North Main Street.

During the traffic stop, Officer Maloney “observed what appeared to be a significantly underweight dog in the vehicle,” according to police. The nine-month-old puppy named Sprout was taken to Westbridge Veterinary Referral Hospital for treatment.

The subsequent investigation determined the driver was Sprout’s owner, and the dog was severely malnourished.

Animal Protection Center Takes Over Sprout’s Care

The dog was transferred to the Animal Protection Center of Southeastern Massachusetts, and police said the dog’s condition is slowly improving. The APCSM is raising funds via its website to support Sprout's recovery.

Police React to the Case

“We express our gratitude for the Westbridge Veterinary Referral Hospital and the Animal Protection Center of Southeastern Massachusetts,” said West Bridgewater Police Lt. Jonathan Craven. "With their efforts, we are confident Sprout will be surrounded by the highest quality of care and support as she starts a long road to recovery."

The man will be summonsed to court to face one count of animal cruelty. His name is not being released at this time because the court has not yet issued a criminal complaint.