In Bolingbrook, Illinois, a troubling tale of alleged neglect has unfolded, revealing a disturbing lack of action by local authorities in response to alleged blatant animal cruelty. A Facebook post brought to light the dire situation of two German Shepherd puppies, who have been left to allegedly endure severe neglect, tethered and starving in a backyard. Despite repeated pleas for help from concerned citizens, the response from local officials has been disappointingly lackluster.
The Facebook post that ignited the community’s outrage was detailed and distressing. It described how the dogs are allegedly left outside all day and night, and allegedly deprived of food and water. The author of the post shared a poignant image taken at 5 PM, showing the dogs in a pitiable state, one appearing particularly emaciated and both chained to a fence. These cries for help, which sound more like sobs than barks, have even disturbed local children, like the daughter of the post’s author, who expressed her distress upon hearing them.
Despite multiple calls to non-emergency numbers and the intervention of animal control, there has been no substantial follow-up or relief for these animals. Bolingbrook City Trustee Michael Carpanzano’s response—to request an email detailing the complaint—demonstrates a procedural approach devoid of the urgency this crisis demands. Mayor Mary Alexander-Basta’s reaction was similarly bureaucratic, with her primary concern being the platform on which the post was shared rather than the welfare of the dogs.
The Illinois Review contacted a Bob Darin a leading animal welfare investigator for the state, who expressed deep concern for the dogs’ condition. The investigator, currently out of state, is frantically working to coordinate with Bolingbrook Police and Will County Sheriff’s Office to bring immediate relief to the animals. According to him, the dogs could perish if left in the current conditions any longer.
As a news organization committed to upholding justice and accountability, the Illinois Review implores every reader to stand up against this alleged neglect. We must rally together to ensure these dogs are rescued, if they are in the conditions depicted, and to demand that our public servants adhere to higher standards of responsiveness and compassion.
We call upon our readers to help bring this issue to the forefront of community attention. Share this story, contact your local representatives, and demand that immediate action be taken to rescue these innocent animals from further suffering if warranted, and proven true . It is only through collective action that we can hope to enforce change and ensure that such negligence is never overlooked again.
********Update on Bolingbrook’s Response to Alleged Animal Neglect*****
The Illinois Review has received important new information concerning the plight of the two German Shepherds in Bolingbrook that were reportedly neglected. In response to our initial article and community concern, the Bolingbrook Police Department acted swiftly. Upon receiving a complaint at 9:36 PM, police were dispatched to investigate but could not locate the animals or contact the owners at that time.
Recognizing the severity of the allegations, the Bolingbrook Police, with the assistance of Will County State’s Attorney Jim Glasgow, secured a search warrant early the following morning. Officers, alongside animal control, gained entry to the property and found the dogs, who appeared to be in good health, although it was difficult to verify the exact conditions regarding how long the animals had been outside.
The Mayor’s office played a crucial role in this prompt response, engaging the police department immediately after the initial report was brought to their attention and remaining actively involved throughout the night. This proactive involvement underscores the city’s commitment to animal welfare and addressing community concerns efficiently.
Village Trustee Michael Carpanzano also reached out to the Illinois Review to clarify that the initial email complaint he received was mistakenly noted online as being related to the dogs, but was related to a parking issue, not the animal neglect. He emphasized the importance of contacting the village after hours for a comment before making public posts on social media. Throughout this period, Trustee Carpanzano was active on social media, contributing to the gathering of information to assist in the matter effectively.
