CHEROKEE COUNTY, GA. – Nearly two weeks after a former school officer was charged in connection with the deaths of two K9 officers, investigators have recovered the remains of a third dog at the officer’s home.
According to authorities, a forensic veterinarian confirmed the remains of a Belgian Malinois, likely killed by a gunshot, were discovered at Lt. Daniel Peabody’s home. These were not the remains of Dale, a Yellow Lab, Peabody claimed to have shot and killed.
He originally told police Dale died when he choked on a ball. However, investigators later determined Peabody shot Dale shortly after he retired.
On June 10, the Cherokee Marshal’s Office and Cherokee Sheriff’s Office responded to Peabody’s home after the death of a 4-year-old Belgian Malinois named Inca.
According to a preliminary investigation, the dog was left in the officer’s patrol unit “at about 4:15 p.m.” when Peabody went into his home to “deal with another dog.”
Tips about Dale’s death came into the Sheriff’s Office after Inca died.
The remains of the third dog are believed to belong to Inca’s grandmother.
Peabody was taken into custody on Wednesday, June 22 and charged with felony animal cruelty as well as making false statements. He received a $22,400 bond.
A spokesperson with the Cherokee County Marshall’s office said their investigation continues. Authorities are continuing to search for Dale’s remains.