Police: Dog Rescued From Locked Truck In Downtown Smithfield, Owner Charged

SMITHFIELD, N.C. — First responders rescued a dog from a locked vehicle in downtown Smithfield on Wednesday after it was reportedly found in distress in the heat, according to the Smithfield Police Department.

A concerned citizen alerted authorities after spotting the dog inside a Ram pickup truck parked on South Second Street near the Johnston County Courthouse.

Officers arrived and found the truck’s windows rolled up with only a slight crack, and the dog showing signs of heat-related distress. Police said the animal also did not have access to water.

Firefighters with the Smithfield Fire Department were able to unlock the vehicle to gain access and remove the dog.

About 90 minutes later, officers located the man they said owned the dog. Authorities identified him as William Bryan Hill, 42, of Richardson Bass Road, Princeton. Hill reportedly told officers he had been at the courthouse and did not have anywhere to leave the dog.

Hill was charged with misdemeanor cruelty to animals and released on a $250 secured bond.

The dog was turned over to Johnston County Animal Services.