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Mesa woman accused of animal cruelty
Brook Scalero was arrested in connection with the deaths of at least three dogs in Mesa.
MESA, Ariz. - A Valley woman who allegedly detailed the torture and killing of dogs in her journal has been arrested.
Mesa Police say their investigation into 42-year-old Brook Scalero began in early June, when "Paws Fur the Cause" reported that Scalero agreed to pay $500 for a 3-year-old Maltese mix named Pepe.
"The organization allowed Scalero to leave with the dog under the pretense that she would pay for him that night, but she never followed through," police said.
On Oct. 5, officers responded to the VCA Animal Hospital for reports of a dead dog matching Pepe's description. The dog's microchip confirmed that it wasn't Pepe, but it was Griffin, another dog who was registered to Scalero. Police say the dog "had injuries consistent with animal abuse."
Brook Scalero
Investigators learned Scalero's roommate owned a dog named Gus, who ultimately died under Scalero's watch. A journal allegedly belonging to Scalero that detailed the torture of more than 10 dogs was turned into police.
"When Scalero left the residence, her roommate found her journal amongst other personal items," police said. "The journal documented the death of Gus."
On Nov. 15, a dead dog was found behind a bush near 8th Avenue and Extension Road. The dog's microchip confirmed it was Pepe.
A day before, Scalero was arrested on unrelated charges. When asked about the journal, she confirmed it was hers but claimed the stories were "creative writings." Police say Scalero also admitted to taking Pepe without paying for him.
On Monday, she was interviewed again by police and allegedly admitted to her involvement in the deaths of Pepe, Griffin and Gus.
Scalero was booked into jail and is accused of animal cruelty and theft charges.