2 dogs burned alive in Chester, police searching for abusers

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Chester City police and a humane officer with the non-profit organization, Justice Rescue, continued to canvass the 2800 block of West 6th Street in Chester, Pa. this morning, hours after responding to a gruesome case of animal cruelty: two mid-sized dogs, possibly Pit bulls, were found burning in front of a garage in a back alleyway.

"It was still smoldering," says neighbor, Anthony Adams. "People were out here. I said, 'What's going on over there?' They said, 'Two dogs - someone set them on fire and left them to burn.'"

It was a disturbing discovery for the local fire department. They were called to the scene around 8:30 Saturday night. Justice Rescue Humane Officer Russell Harper says the dogs were found inside of a plastic tote bag that was melted by the flames.

Harper tells Fox 29 News, "We always say there are some things you can't un-see and this is one of those situations that will never leave [our minds]."

People who live nearby say they can't imagine why someone set out to kill these innocent animals.

One man who didn't want to be named offered, "If you don't want the dog, take them to the SPCA - that's the way I feel about it."

Adams said, "I'm a dog owner, myself, and I couldn't imagine how anybody could have the heart to do something like that. It's disgusting."

It's unclear where the dogs came from and who is responsible for the heinous act. Forensic evidence was collected at the scene. It still needs to be processed. Police are urging anyone with information to please come forward.

"Somebody knows something. Somebody knows where these dogs came from and it's not ok that this animal abuse takes place," adds Officer Harper.

Justice Rescue is offering a $1,000 reward for anyone who provides information that leads to an arrest and conviction of the person responsible. Tips can be made anonymously by calling 215-942-6363 or by emailing abuse@justice-rescue.com.

http://www.justice-rescue.com/