WAREHAM, Mass. - A K9 officer with the MBTA is accused of animal cruelty after his family dog was found dead in a cage at his Wareham home. Officials say the dog died of starvation.

Antonio Carniero has been charged with one count of animal cruelty.

Carniero has worked with the MBTA Transit Police Department for 13 years, and has served in the K9 unit for the past two years.

He has been suspended pending an investigation, according to the MBTA.

"I am outraged and disgusted that anyone, let alone an officer who we entrusted with the care of one of our dogs, might have committed this egregious act," Chief MacMillan said in a statement. "We will continue to cooperate fully with the Animal Rescue League and the District Attorney concerning this matter."

The dog was not an MBTA Transit Police dog

Carniero was arraigned today in Wareham District Court and released on person recognizance.

He’ll be back in court on August 17.


What a jerk, hope they throw the book at him!