Shelter Probe: Dog's Death Unintentional

VIRGINIA BEACH — Virginia Beach police say there wasn't any criminal intent involved in the death of a dog that was left outside a shelter overnight in cold weather.

Police tell media outlets that a caretaker forgot to return the 10-year-old pit bull, named Batman, to the Virginia Beach Animal Care and Adoption Center after taking him outside to a dog run on Feb. 17.

Overnight temperatures were in the lower 20s.

A necropsy shows that Batman had heart and lung disease and possibly diabetes. Hypothermia's possible role in the dog's death is inconclusive.

Police are continuing to review the shelter's policies and procedures.