Woman Accused Of Killing Dog To Avoid Paying Vet Bills

RENO (CBS13) — A woman stabbed and beat her dog to death to avoid paying for a veterinarian to euthanize it, the Washoe County Sheriff's Department said.

Laura Beth Hesse, 30 of Stead was arrested on Tuesday on multiple charges.

Investigators say the body of a female Boxer Hesse owned was found wrapped in a towel in a dumpster behind a business on Feb. 3. They concluded the dog died from multiple stab wounds and blunt force trauma to the head.

During their investigation, evidence was found pointing toward a possible motive. Deputies say she was trying to avoid paying for her dog to be euthanized.

On Tuesday, officers stopped Hesse after she allegedly ran a stop sign while under the influence.

Investigators say a child came out of the home where Hesse had been seen departing from, and after obtaining a search warrant, methamphetamine, marijuana and drug paraphernalia were found inside.

Hesse faces charges including willful and malicious torture, maiming and killing of a dog; child neglect; DUI and possession of a controlled substance.