State Shuts Down Kennel Accused Of Fraud
MCKEES ROCKS (KDKA) -- The state has shut down Triangle Pet Control Services in McKees Rocks.
Authorities say the kennel was forced to close immediately because it allegedly defrauded the state by getting paid for services it didn't actually perform.
KDKA Investigator Marty Griffin reports the owner allegedly ordered employees to cook the books by lying about the number of dogs euthanized, thus charging the state tens of thousands of dollars.
They are also accused of not properly caring for the dogs.
Inspectors with the State Department of Agriculture entered Triangle Pet just after noon. When they left, they placed a "Notice of Operating Under Suspension of Kennel License" on the front door.
The state order immediately suspends the kennel's license, orders the kennel to immediately cease and desist from operating and the kennel is not allow to acquire any additional dogs or increase the number in the kennel in any way.
Marty Griffin: "They said they fudged fake dog reports. Did that happen?"
Employee: "That happened a while ago…"
Marty Griffin: "April."
Employee: "…When the old owners [were] here, right, and the other owner, but he's transferring the ownership into another person's name."
Authorities allege the owner directed employees to inflate the number of dogs being destroyed. Police allege the owner submitted 8,000 fictitious dogs in two quarters and in the process shortchanged the Department of Agriculture nearly $38,000.
A hearing is not scheduled on this case until December 4. The owner is charged with theft by deception and tampering with documents. That case is still under investigation by Pennsylvania State Police.
KDKA's Marty Griffin spoke to the owner who said there was no problem and that he was going to pay a fine and get on with his business.
The facility contracts with 58 municipalities. They're supposed to pick up dogs and dispose of them. They are supposed to get paid $30 for each dog.
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