Watch CBS News

Woman Reaches Plea Deal After Dog Found In Garbage Can

EAST HUNTINGDON TOWNSHIP (KDKA) – Nicole Baker rushed past cameras while hiding her face in East Huntingdon Twp., Westmoreland County when she came to court, and did the same when she left, speeding away after reaching a plea deal in a case few will forget.

Just before she moved to Texas, her dog was found in a trash can outside her residence in Hempfield Township.

At the hearing today, should his testimony have been necessary, garbage collector Nathan Binnie was on hand and ready to tell the court about the shocking discovery he made.

"I pulled her out and made sure she was half okay, I guess as much as I could," said Binnie. "And I actually fed her my lunch. I could tell she was hungry and I had a good turkey sandwich I thought she'd enjoy. Gave her some water."

Instead of a hearing, a plea deal was reached.

Baker pleaded guilty to some charges and agreed to ARD for others. Her punishment includes a $600 fine.

"They did a plea deal thru the DA's office that she would plead guilty to a summary animal cruelty charge, summary disorderly conduct," said Humane Officer Jan Dillon. "She will get ARD, community service, have to pay full restitution and have a mental evaluation."

The dog, now known as Fawna, looks a lot different now. She's been adopted by a veterinary technician at the Westmoreland County Humane Society. She's gained 32 pounds and doesn't show many signs of trauma from months ago.

"She plays, she eats, she's having a great time and really, she's not a little scared, timid, zombie dog anymore," said new owner Megan Fritz. "She's really just very happy, very healthy and very well adjusted."

Join The Conversation On The KDKA Facebook Page
Stay Up To Date, Follow KDKA On Twitter

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.