Prosecutor announces charges related to the death of K-9 Cooper

ZANESVILLE, Ohio – Muskingum County Prosecutor Ron Welch has announced first degree misdemeanor charges related to the death of K-9 Cooper. Shortly after the Muskingum County Sheriff’s Office announced their findings from their internal investigation on Wednesday, Welch released a video announcing the charges against Detective Matt Wilhite.

According to the prosecutor, detective left Cooper in the car believing he had the air conditioning on, but instead had the defrost on which lead to the K-9 passing away from heat exhaustion. Welch went on to say Wilhite also failed to maintain operation of a temperature monitor that could have prevented the situation.

“I know many of you are angry and I understand. Cooper was part of our law enforcement family. As a K-9 handler, Detective Wilhite had a responsibility to keep Cooper safe and when that doesn’t happen, the law requires accountability. Even for a police officer,” said Welch.  “I want you to know Detective Wilhite is devastated. He’s fully cooperated with the investigation, admitted his mistake, and has taken full responsibility for his actions. ”

If found guilty, Wilhite could receive up to 180 days in jail and up to a $1,000 fine. Welch says his office will share updates on the case as information becomes available.