Former Maine emergency communications director resigns after being charged with animal cruelty in comfort dog's death from heat exposure.

Brodie Hinckley, former director of Maine’s Bureau of Emergency Communications and handler of Baxter, the state’s first official comfort dog, has resigned after being charged with a civil violation of animal cruelty. Baxter, a 3-year-old chocolate Labrador, died on May 28, 2025, after being left in a hot, non-operational state vehicle at the Bangor Regional Communications Center, where temperatures reached 82–83 degrees. Hinckley, who was on paid administrative leave, was charged following an independent investigation by the state’s Animal Welfare Program. His arraignment is set for November 6. The incident has sparked public concern over animal welfare in state operations.