Man Faces Charges For Leaving Dogs In Freezing Car in Pierre

Here’s another reminder that while anyone can own a pet, it doesn't mean everyone should.

A 54-year-old man is facing serious charges after two dogs were allegedly left locked inside a car during dangerously cold temperatures over the weekend in Pierre, South Dakota. Authorities say Derek Englund, originally from Tennessee, was arrested early Saturday morning, January 31, after witnesses noticed something was definitely wrong, and thankfully, spoke up.

According to Dakota News Now, people at Northridge Plaza spotted two dogs sitting inside a parked vehicle in the pre-dawn hours and quickly realized the animals were in trouble.

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When police arrived at the scene around 6:06 AM, the temperature outside was reported to be two degrees below zero. That kind of cold doesn’t just nip at your nose; it can also be deadly, especially for animals trapped inside a car with no way to get out.

Authorities say Englund refused to properly care for the dogs or surrender them, which led to his arrest on charges of Neglect and Abandonment of an Animal. He was taken to the Hughes County Jail.

Officers then focused on what mattered most: the dogs. They were taken to the local animal shelter in Pierre, where they’re now safe, warm, and in good health. The dogs will be cared for while they wait for a more suitable and loving home.

Stories like this are tough to read, especially for anyone who considers themselves to be an animal lover.

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As we all know, South Dakota winters can be unforgiving and bitterly cold! It’s why this situation hits close to home, and why a great deal of thanks needs go out to the concerned citizens who made the welfare check call on the two dogs involved. Their involvement made all the difference.

Sometimes, doing the right thing is as simple as making a phone call. In this case, that call likely saved the lives of two precious dogs.