Dog’s Death Leads to Aggravated Animal Cruelty Arrest
Kerrie Swick (58, Joliet) was arrested and transported to the Will County Adult Detention Facility for Aggravated Animal Cruelty.
On July 2, 2025, the Joliet Police Department was notified by Joliet Township Animal Control reference possible animal cruelty at a residence in the 500 block of Springwood Drive. It was learned that Swick had contacted Joliet Township Animal Control at approximately 9:30 a.m. that morning requesting assistance in moving her 14-year-old Labrador retriever named “Bear” from the backyard to a vehicle so that the dog could be transported to a vet for an evaluation.
A Joliet Township Animal Control representative responded to the residence and located the dog in the back yard without proper shelter, food or water. It was learned that the dog had been outside since approximately 8 p.m. the prior evening.
The dog appeared to be in grave condition and was transported to a veterinary center in Plainfield who determined that the dog had an internal temperature of 110 degrees Fahrenheit and had suffered from heat stroke. The dog was humanely euthanized due to its poor medical condition.
This case was reviewed by the Will County State’s Attorney Office, who approved a felony charge of Aggravated Animal Cruelty. Swick was placed into custody by Officers at her residence that afternoon at 2:39 p.m.
The Joliet Police Department reminds the public to take extra precautions to protect their pets during periods of extreme heat. Please keep a watchful eye on your animals and ensure they have access to shade, food, and plenty of fresh water.
Thank you to the Joliet Township Animal Control and the Will County State’s Attorney Office for their collaboration in this case.