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Arrests made after dead husky puppy found in Scottsdale alley

Police said the puppy appeared to have had its mouth taped shut.

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. — Scottsdale police have arrested two people accused of leaving a dead husky puppy in an alley last month. 

A resident near McDowell and Hayden roads found the puppy in the alley on June 23 at about 7 p.m. Police said the puppy appeared to have had its mouth taped shut. 

RELATED: Scottsdale PD seeking info on dead puppy found behind house

Scottsdale detectives discovered a surveillance video showing a vehicle in the alley when the puppy was discarded. Investigators identified 35-year-old Lester Paul Richmond as the vehicle's owner. 

After identifying Richmond as a potential lead, investigators obtained video surveillance of Richmond and 32-year-old Heather Auditor talking about getting rid of the puppy.

Police said Richmond was booked into the Maricopa County Jail for one count of animal cruelty. Auditor was also booked for one count of Animal Cruelty and one of hindering prosecution.

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