Chester Chair Faces Felony in Dog Death Case

Richard Van Buren, chairman of the Chester Town Board in Dodge County, Wisconsin, has been charged with felony animal mistreatment after allegedly killing a stray golden retriever by hanging it with a leash. The incident occurred after Shelby Krohn found the dehydrated dog and, following instructions from authorities, brought it to Van Buren, who then became agitated and used a leash as a noose, resulting in the dog's death. Van Buren was arrested, appeared in court, and released on a $5,000 bond with a condition barring him from possessing domesticated dogs. The case has drawn significant public outcry and social media attention, prompting law enforcement to warn against threats and misinformation online. Sheriff Dale Schmidt emphasized that the investigation and enforcement were based on evidence, not public pressure, and clarified that no Dodge County officials outside Chester were involved. Van Buren's preliminary hearing is set for July 31.