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Dog allegedly thrown from sedan on I-76, Jefferson County Sheriff's Office says

The miniature poodle was put down
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JEFFERSON COUNTY, Colo. — The Jefferson County Sheriff's Office is looking for the person who threw a small dog out of a sedan while driving on I-76 Tuesday.

It happened around 1:45 p.m. on eastbound I-76 just before Sheridan Boulevard and the vehicle was a black Lexus sedan. Witnesses told police it appeared the dog was deliberately thrown from the moving sedan.

The miniature poodle was taken to Foothills Animal Shelter in critical condition, but the sheriff's office later confirmed the dog died.

Jefferson County Animal Control tells Denver7 they have been in contact with the owner of the dog, whose name was Teddy. The owner told Animal Control the dog was stolen.

On Thursday, the sheriff's office said the owner was not involved in the incident and that Teddy was a beloved by the owner.

Jefferson County Animal Control says if they determine the abuse of an animal is intentional, the max penalty would be a felony and could mean up to 18 months in prison. If there's not enough evidence to prove intent, the accused could still face a 12-month sentence.

Anyone who witnessed the incident or who may have information about a potential owner is asked to call (303) 271-5070 or email animal-control@jeffco.us.

Anyone interested in helping Foothills Animal Shelter in their work can donate here.