Minneapolis, MN asked in Criminal Law, Animal / Dog Law and Car Accidents for Minnesota

Q: Witnessed my neighbor's dog get hit by a car and die instantly - driver left the scene but lives nearby. Illegal?

I obviously let my neighbor know immediately and she is devastated. I am wondering if we should call the cops or if there is nothing they could/would do about it. I have seen the car before and know they live in the area. Is this a crime? Should I get the car's license plate number? Or is there nothing we can do?

2 Lawyer Answers
Jonathan Matthew Holson
Jonathan Matthew Holson
Answered
  • Criminal Law Lawyer
  • Saint Cloud, MN
  • Licensed in Minnesota

A: Yes. It is something that can be reported to law enforcement. It is animal cruelty.

Thomas C Gallagher
Thomas C Gallagher
Answered
  • Criminal Law Lawyer
  • Minneapolis, MN
  • Licensed in Minnesota

A: It may not be a criminal matter, unless there is evidence that it was an intentional act (or at least gross negligent act). But, you could call the police and give them the opportunity to do whatever they can.

Justia Ask a Lawyer is a forum for consumers to get answers to basic legal questions. Any information sent through Justia Ask a Lawyer is not secure and is done so on a non-confidential basis only.

The use of this website to ask questions or receive answers does not create an attorney–client relationship between you and Justia, or between you and any attorney who receives your information or responds to your questions, nor is it intended to create such a relationship. Additionally, no responses on this forum constitute legal advice, which must be tailored to the specific circumstances of each case. You should not act upon information provided in Justia Ask a Lawyer without seeking professional counsel from an attorney admitted or authorized to practice in your jurisdiction. Justia assumes no responsibility to any person who relies on information contained on or received through this site and disclaims all liability in respect to such information.

Justia cannot guarantee that the information on this website (including any legal information provided by an attorney through this service) is accurate, complete, or up-to-date. While we intend to make every attempt to keep the information on this site current, the owners of and contributors to this site make no claims, promises or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness or adequacy of the information contained in or linked to from this site.