Published November 29, 2019
MELROSE — A Mount Zion Road man was charged last week after reportedly beating his sick dog to death with a rock and burying the animal in the backyard.
Police said Adam Crook, 44, of 14 Mount Zion Rd. faces a charge of animal cruelty.
According to Chief Michael Lyle, police went to the neighborhood on Saturday, November 23, for a report of an incident of animal cruelty. Upon arrival, police initiated an on-scene investigation and learned that a neighbor, later identified as Crook, allegedly dragged his dog from his home into his back yard on Friday night.
ADAM CROOK, 44, of Melrose. (Melrose Police Booking Photo)
Through their investigation, police determined that Crook, who is known to police, allegedly struck the dog in the head with a large rock multiple times once outside, killing it. Crook then allegedly retrieved a shovel from his home and subsequently buried the dog.
Melrose Police obtained and subsequently executed a search warrant to locate and exhume the dog from the grave on November 23. The dog was said to be about the size of a beagle.
Crook was arrested Sunday morning, November 24, around 8:15.
“This suspect’s alleged actions are absolutely reprehensible and inexcusable,” Lyle said. “I’m grateful for the excellent investigative work of Melrose Police Sgt. Brian Ladner, Detective Sgt. Paul McNamara, Officer Pamela Daye and Lt. Alan Borgal of the Animal Rescue League that resulted in this arrest.”
Melrose Police worked collaboratively on this investigation with federal law enforcement partners and the Animal Rescue League of Boston.
Crook was arrested without incident.
Crook was given a bail hearing and was released by the hearing officer on his personal recognizance. He was expected to be arraigned Tuesday, Nov. 26, in Malden District Court, after our holiday week deadline.
