CHANDLER, Ariz. — A lead investigator in the case of 55 dogs being rescued from "deplorable" living conditions in Chandler has recently been promoted.
The Chandler Police Department announced this week that Nicole Vasey has risen to the rank of lieutenant after her involvement in the high-profile animal abuse case.
Vasey was involved in seizing up to 55 animals from a Chandler home in September where April McLaughlin was operating the Special Needs Animal Welfare League. Police had recommended charging McLaughlin with 111 counts of animal abuse and cruelty but prosecutors declined to formally charge the suspect.
Fifty-five dogs were seized from the home during the police investigation and some of those dogs later had to be euthanized due to poor health.
Vasey was called to testify in court last month after McLaughlin petitioned to get back some of the dogs that had been seized. A judge rejected the request after determining that the animals had been living in "unacceptable" conditions.
In her testimony, Vasey said she specializes in investigating animal cruelty cases and has participated in at least 100 cases during her law enforcement career.
UP TO SPEED
Watch 12News+ for free
You can now watch 12News content anytime, anywhere thanks to the 12News+ app!
The free 12News+ app from 12News lets users stream live events — including daily newscasts like "Today in AZ" and "12 News" and our daily lifestyle program, "Arizona Midday"—on Roku and Amazon Fire TV.
12News+ showcases live video throughout the day for breaking news, local news, weather and even an occasional moment of Zen showcasing breathtaking sights from across Arizona.
Users can also watch on-demand videos of top stories, local politics, I-Team investigations, Arizona-specific features and vintage videos from the 12News archives.
Roku: Add the channel from the Roku store or by searching for "12 News KPNX."
Amazon Fire TV: Search for "12 News KPNX" to find the free 12News+ app to add to your account, or have the 12News+ app delivered directly to your Amazon Fire TV through Amazon.com or the Amazon app.