A West Haven woman is free on bond after police say she and friend lit a dead dog on fire in the parking lot near a beach.

West Haven police say 35-year-old Latrice Moody, who owns the dog, came home from a firework display on July Fourth and found that her dog, Brooklyn, had died. They say she then asked a friend to help her burn the dog.

Police say Moody and 41-year-old Maurice Jackson, of West Haven, wrapped the dead dog in a towel, poured gasoline on it and lit the dog on fire in the parking lot of Sandy Point Beach. They allegedly left the dog there to burn.

Investigators initially thought the dog may have been alive but say the older terrier breed was likely dead prior to being set on fire.

Moody was arrested Monday. Jackson was taken into custody on Tuesday. He is charged with breach of peace in the second degree, illegal dumping and open burning.

Police say the actions by Moody and Jackson are indicative of someone who wanted to dispose of an animal and not cremate a beloved pet. According to Moody’s arrest warrant, she admitted to her part in the incident.

Moody posted a $30,000 bond. She’s due back in court on Aug. 20.

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