The Hollister Police Department confirmed this week that the
poison used to kill District Attorney John Sarsfield’s dogs was
anti-freeze and that it wasn’t an accident.
The Hollister Police Department confirmed this week that the poison used to kill District Attorney John Sarsfield’s dogs was anti-freeze and that it wasn’t an accident.
“We have confirmed that, but there is no further information at this time,” Det. Sgt. Arnie Weathers said Tuesday.
Police ruled out the idea that the dogs may have gotten into the anti-freeze by accident because they didn’t find any on Sarsfield’s property, Weathers said.
Sarsfield’s 1-year-old Border Collie named Whisper, and a 14-year-old Brittany Spaniel named Sundance both died last week after eating or licking the anti-freeze on Monday, July 26.
Whisper was given to Sarsfield’s 8-year-old daughter as a birthday present by a close family friend. She, along with the entire family, was distraught when they found out what happened, Sarsfield said last week.
Police are still investigating whether there may be a political connection to the poisonings, but have no suspects. Sarsfield is facing a potential recall and a heated political battle over the contested District 5 supervisor race.
There has also been no community leads or tips, Weathers said.
“It’s been really disappointing,” he said.
Police will continue to investigate the incident as a felony cruelty to animals, Weathers said.
Anyone with information concerning the incident can contract Detective Sgt. Arnie Weathers at the Hollister Police Department at (831) 636-4330..
