A former FedEx driver in North Carolina is accused of stealing a French bulldog, which then died from suspected heat-related issues in the suspect’s scorching delivery truck, authorities said.
Kimani Joehon Marshall, 44, of Fayetteville, turned himself into authorities Monday on recommended charges of larceny of a dog, possession of stolen property and cruelty to animals, Harnett County Sheriff Wayne Coats said in a statement.
The tan and white pup was named Tori, according to court documents and the sheriff’s office. The dog was valued at $5,500, according to an arrest warrant issued July 11.
Marshall stole the dog on July 3 while he was delivering packages and continued on his route, the sheriff’s office said.
“Investigators believe that K-9 Tori died due to heat related issues as she traveled inside the FEDEX truck as temperatures were reportedly in the 90’s,” Coats said.
The dog’s body was found July 10 in Lillington, the sheriff’s office said.
Marshall was jailed on $50,000 secured bond. Court records show his bond was posted.
Marshall declined comment when he was reached by phone Wednesday afternoon. He said his attorney would comment for him, but the attorney did not immediately respond.
FedEx declined to comment on whether Marshall was a full-time employee or a contractor. In a statement, it said Marshall no longer works for FedEx.
“We extend our deepest sympathies to the family on the loss of their beloved pet,” the statement said. “We understand the importance of people’s pets in their lives and deeply regret the pain that this has caused. The driver is no longer providing service on behalf of FedEx.”